Dear Brother/Sister
Most members will now be aware that the Union was last week presented with a set of proposals on pensions. These were made available immediately on the Union's website as was the statement which was subsequently agreed by the Executive Council. Obviously the developments around the attacks on our pension are at a crucial stage and this circular seeks to explain what will happen over the next few weeks.
Executive Council Statement
Following the publication of the Government proposals ('Heads of Agreement') the Executive Council discussed the detail and agreed the following statement:
Executive Council Statement: Pension Proposals
The Executive Council has now received the proposals for Fire Service pensions. We are disappointed that the significant body of evidence presented by the Fire Brigades Union during these discussions appears to have been ignored.
We believe these proposals to be unacceptable in that they include:
- Unaffordable and unfair contribution rates.
- A totally unrealistic retirement age for firefighters.
- An unsustainable scheme for the Fire Service.
The Executive Council will now consult members through Branches and our Committee structure. The Executive Council recommends that there is a rapid move to prepare a strike ballot and that further discussion should finalise the details of this. The Executive Council will meet again in three weeks, after consulting members, to consider developments.
We remain committed to maintaining dialogue and hope that the Government will now resolve the matter through properly engaging on the issues raised during discussions.
Understanding and Explaining the Government Document
Pension issues can be complicated and technical and we are aware that members have a great many questions about the detail of the proposals and what they mean. The Union has given assurances to members that the proposals will be presented in full with as much explanation as possible.
To assist in this process we are currently preparing material:
- To assist Brigade Officials in explaining the Government document and answering questions.
- To explain related matters such as the proposed protection arrangements.
- To explain these issues directly to members through an individual bulletin for members' home addresses.
This material will be issued as soon as possible but I am sure you will appreciate the need for anything issued to be as accurate as possible. This inevitably takes some time but further material will be issued to members this week.
Consulting Members
The Executive Council has agreed that a period of time should be taken in consulting members before proceeding to a ballot for industrial action. This should allow members to familiarise themselves with the Government proposals. We also hope it will allow time for further discussions with Government officials. We have made clear throughout that we are willing to discuss pension matters with Government officials
Since last May, FBU Branches have been meeting to discuss the attacks on our pensions and we have provided as much information as possible at each stage of the campaign. Further discussion and consultation will now take place through our Branch and Committee structure and Brigade and Regional Official are currently identifying the best ways to achieve this.
Further information will follow at the earliest opportunity.
Best wishes.
Yours fraternally
Matt Wrack
General Secretary
2012HOC0109MW
