Thursday, 9 February 2023
Statement from Norbiton based FBU following postponement of strike action.
Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said:
"Today, firefighters were given a new pay offer.
“This offer is testament to the power of collective action
through the Fire Brigades Union. Last year we were offered an insulting 2%. The
employers have now revised their position.
"We have achieved this increase because of the massive
vote in favour of strike action by firefighters and control staff across the
country, which made clear the strength of feeling among firefighters about cuts
to their wages.
“Since 2010, the average firefighter has lost at least 12%
of the value of their pay.
"We will now ballot our members. Frontline firefighters
and control room staff will make the decision on whether this pay offer is
considered a real improvement.
“Our internal discussions will be honest and sober. While
the offer is improved from last year, it still amounts to a real terms pay cut.
"Meanwhile, plans to announce a series of strike dates
and industrial action will be postponed, pending the outcome of the ballot.
"88% of firefighters voted for industrial in our
ballot. The mandate for strike action by firefighters remains."
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:04 am
