PRESS RELEASE 04.11.03

RFU CONDEMN UNOFFICIAL ACTION

The RFU is dismayed at the news that unofficial action is sweeping the country by some members of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU). We would like to make it clear to the general public that the vast majority of the Retained service who are not members of the FBU will not be taking part in any form of industrial action.

Events have taken place due to the FBU not following up promises of modernisation made to the National Employers, which has meant that the 7% will not be paid in full on 7 November 2003. The FBU’s restrictive practices which include a ban on overtime, non compliance with mixed crews of Wholetime and Retained personnel, Wholetime personnel undertaking Retained duties and the Co/First Responder schemes, still exist.

There is also an outcry by ALL Retained personnel over the new Retained Pay Structure formulated by the National Employers and the FBU. The new structure has meant that personnel who hold a rank are to lose money, in addition, Retained stations with an excess of 200 calls per year will also be worse off. Neither does the new structure help overcome the 20% shortfall the Retained service currently has, leaving fire engines without a crew in some areas, predominately during the day.

We can understand the frustration personnel must be feeling at present but unfortunately due to the stance taken by the FBU in failing to honour its promises over modernisation it leaves all personnel in limbo.

Notes for Editors
Retained firefighters cover;
91% of UK landmass
60% of the pumps
55% of fire stations
30% of the personnel employed
8% of the UK fire salaries

The RFU have a no-strike policy.