Firefighters Poised for Strike Over ‘Derisory’ 5% Pay Rise
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is on the brink of a strike vote over a measly 5% pay increase offer. Members have until January 30 to cast their ballots. The mood is grim.
Strike Action a Last Resort, Says FBU Boss
FBU general secretary Matt Wrack slammed the offer as “derisory.” He said, “Strike action will always be a last resort, but we are out of options.” Firefighters and control staff are struggling to make ends meet amid a cost-of-living crisis.
“This is a terrible and very serious situation,” Wrack added. “We are doing everything we can to secure a decent offer.”
Employers Must Step Up, Union Demands
The FBU has reached out to employers and government bodies but says no acceptable pay offer has been made. Wrack insisted, “It is the responsibility of service employers and governments to properly compensate their employees.”
The union expects a pay proposal that genuinely tackles rising living costs. “Our members have mandated us to fight for pay they can live on, and we will do so,” Wrack declared.
First National Firefighters’ Pay Strike in Two Decades?
If the strike goes ahead, it will be the first national firefighter pay strike since 2002-2003. Previous action on pensions occurred in 2013 and 2015.
The nation could soon see firefighters putting down their hoses unless a better deal arrives fast.
