Statement on the latest industrial action by firefighters
The Department for Communities and Local Government responds to the Fire Brigades Union's latest strike action.
A spokesman from the Department for Communities and Local Government said:
All fire and rescue authorities have robust and well tested plans in place that include back up support if needed. Public safety will remain the primary focus and if anyone needs emergency assistance they should dial 999.
The government believes a solution can be reached, but not under the shadow of industrial action, which only serves to damage firefighters’ good standing with the public. By disrupting constructive discussions and an open consultation in this way the FBU has once again shown it is not serious about finding a resolution.
The deal on the table is fair and gives firefighters one of the most generous pensions in the public sector. Additionally the proposals protect the earned rights of a higher proportion of members than any other public sector scheme. Nearly 3 quarters will see no change in their pension age in 2015. Under the new scheme, a firefighter who earns £29,000 will still be able to retire after a full career aged 60, get a £19,000 a year pension, rising to £26,000 with the state pension. The equivalent private pension pot would be worth over half a million pounds and require firefighters to contribute twice as much.
Previous responses to calls for strike action
2014
2013
Other announcements
18 December 2013
9 February 2012
Last updated 12 June 2014 + show all updates
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Added new statement on the latest strike action (12 June 2014).
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Added new response to the latest call for strike action.
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First published.