Shock Vote: Steve Wright Topples Matt Wrack as Fire Brigades Union Boss
End of an Era for Matt Wrack
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has a new chief. Steve Wright, former vice-president, smashed the polls with 5,188 votes, knocking longtime leader Matt Wrack off his perch, who managed just 3,436. The turnout was a modest 29%, but the message was clear: Wrack’s two-decade reign is over.
Wrack, who had battled through endless pay disputes, job cuts, and fights for union rights, reflected on his time at the helm, saying:
“We have fought back against attacks on the fire service and we have laid the ground for real progress.”
During Wrack’s era, the FBU won a hefty 16% pay rise over three years with no strings attached, boosted maternity pay, and secured a whopping £19 billion public sector settlement. He also helped set new national fire service standards and advised ministers on fire safety policy.
Wrack’s Legacy: Strikes and Workers’ Rights
Wrack led the FBU through its longest-ever strike from 2013-2015, fighting pension reforms tooth and nail. He was a fierce campaigner for repealing anti-union laws that shackled firefighters’ right to strike. Beyond the FBU, Wrack also served as president of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), championing workers’ rights and better labour conditions under the Labour government.
Steve Wright: The New Face of Firefighter Fightback
Steve Wright steps into the fire-facing role amid big expectations. He’s set to push hard for fair pay, improved working conditions, and crucial fire service reforms. Members clearly wanted fresh leadership to tackle ongoing battles in the fire and rescue sector.
The FBU, under Wright, is poised to shape government policies on firefighter safety, employment rights, and fire service funding over the coming years. The union’s fight isn’t over — it’s just taking a bold new direction.
