21 May 2004
The war of words between firefighters and employers intensified this week as wild-cat action spread to eight areas.
Following last week's announcement that the Fire Brigades Union would vote on industrial action on June 15, eight brigades began 'work to rule' actions after 19 Salford firefighters were suspended. The 19 had refused to use new anti-terror equipment in protest at a 3.5% pay increase they say was due in November.
This latest twist follows a breakdown in talks between the FBU and employers two weeks ago. The two sides are still battling over the staged pay increase and over 'stand-down time'. Employers want firefighters to use this time on fire prevention and community work. The FBU wants this negotiated locally.
FBU general secretary Andy Gilchrist said they 'mean business'.
A spokesman for the Employers Organisation said: 'The question is should they use their time productively and to the benefit of the community or should they use a third of their time asleep?'
PFmay2004
