This just in from Matt Wrack FBU... The Executive Council met yesterday and discussed the result and our next steps. I will be issuing further information on all aspects over the next few days but please note the following: 1. We are aware of some of the claims made by CLG ministers and officials (and local fire service employers) during the ballot. They have claimed that there is nothing to worry about in relation to ageing, fitness, capability and related matters. If that is the case, there should be no obstacle to reaching settlement with us to ensure that firefighters are protected by agreements rather than simply by the good will of individual Chief Fire Officers or Human Resource managers. We will seek urgent discussions to address this matter. 2. We have agreed that we should contact the relevant Ministers in each part of the UK as well as fire and rescue service employers (both individually and through the National Joint Council) in order to seek urgent resolution to the issues we have identified. If the positive comments from employers and government are genuine then there should be no obstacle to our concerns being addressed. 3. We have already begun to make direct contact with relevant Ministers and we are in the process of setting up meetings to discuss whether a way forward can be found. It is important that all such avenues should be explored. 4. In this regard the Executive Council agreed not to call strike dates immediately. The Executive Council is scheduled to meet regularly to assess whether any progress has been made. We are very conscious that the time for progress to be made is extremely limited. 5. The Executive Council agreed that political lobbying of MPs, MSPs, AMs and local councillors should be stepped up. This is something which every member can participate in. New material is currently being prepared and will be placed on the union’s website. 6. The Executive Council agreed to call a national march and demonstration in London on October 16. This will be an opportunity for us to stand up for our service, our profession and our pension rights. Please begin to plan how you can participate. This circular is simply a brief introduction to our next steps. We will issue further information as soon as possible. Thank you all for the determination, professionalism and solidarity you have shown throughout this long campaign. We have a long way to go but we have made a significant start. Best wishes Yours In Unity MATT WRACK GENERAL SECRETARY
Posted on: Fri, 30 Aug 2013 17:40:01 +0000
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