Submitted by SWFBU on
TO: ALL MEMBERS
Dear Brother/Sister
PENSIONS CAMPAIGN: EXECUTIVE COUNCIL STATEMENT AND LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
The Executive Council met yesterday (12 September) to hear reports of discussion around our Pension campaign and to consider the next steps.
As we have set out, the Executive Council has been clear throughout that we have sought to avoid strike action if at all possible. That approach has been discussed and debated throughout the past two years and endorsed by our Conference.
In view of this we have engaged in discussions since our strike ballot result. These have included meetings with:
• Scottish Government
• Welsh First Minister
• CLG Fire Minister
In addition there have been ongoing discussions jointly between the FBU, CLG officials and representatives of the Fire and Rescue Service Employers. These have been in an attempt to address the major issue of the threat of capability dismissals as a result of age-related declining fitness.
It is important to note that here have been revised proposals from the Scottish Government. These relate to; protection arrangements; RDS pensions provision; and of the threat of No Job: No Pension.
The Executive Council has considered these proposals and will post full details on our website as soon as possible. However, the Executive Council identified areas of these proposals which appear unclear. It was agreed to seek clarification from the Scottish Government. The Executive Council made no other recommendation in relation to these proposals. Our members have been clear throughout that they seek clear proposals which can be understood by all.
In relation to England and Wales, it was reported that no revised proposals have been received. As a result the Executive Council agreed the following statement:
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL STATEMENT – PENSION CAMPAIGN
The Executive Council condemns the position of the Westminster Government and their refusal to offer any improved proposals in regard to Firefighter pensions. The Welsh Government has also failed to produce or offer any improved proposals.
This is despite the significant and overwhelming ballot result by FBU members which showed a clear rejection of the Government position and the lawful timescales within which strike action must be called. Due to this political intransigence, the Executive Council has no option but to call periods of strike action in England and Wales.
The Executive Council acknowledge the position of the Scottish Government which is to engage positively with the Union, offer improved proposals and not set any arbitrary deadlines for talks.
In light of this position, the Executive Council has not called any strike action in Scotland. The Executive Council will now consult and communicate with FBU members in Scotland and the UK on the proposals received thus far and the ongoing talks.
It now appears that strike action is unavoidable in England and Wales. Arrangements are currently being finalised for this. This preparation includes the steps which need to be put in place locally. All Brigades Committees and all Branches will need to discuss how strike action is to be organised, including the involvement of all members in the action and in the related campaigning.
• Branches are asked to plan for engagement with:
• Local trade unions and community groups;
• MPs, Councillors and other local politicians;
and
• Local press and media.
Guidance material has been prepared on these aspects and will be brought together for easy access by local members.
Announcement of strike action will be made in due course.
Best wishes.
Yours fraternally
MATT WRACK
GENERAL SECRETARY
