Messages of support for firefighters have been sent to the Fire Brigades Union ahead of industrial action on Friday and Monday over pensions and retirement age.
Jan Willem Goudriaan, deputy secretary of the European Federation of Public Service Unions, said: “The FBU’s action in September was overwhelmingly supported by members and we are sure that the stoppages planned for the coming days will again show firefighters’ determination to protect their pension rights and get the government and employers back to the negotiating table.”
Zdeněk J. Oberreiter, Chairman of the Czech Firefighters Union, said: “Our union sends solidarity greetings to the FBU and hopes that your action will lead to further negotiations.
“The truth is on your side, and Czech firefighters fully support your struggle.”
The FBU Parliamentary Group said: “We pledge their continued support in your fight to protect the pensions you deserve.
“The Government should address all eight points of this trade dispute; recognise the Williams Report evidence on age and fitness and the danger to the public of expecting firefighters to work into their late fifties; and guarantee no dismissals on capability grounds.
“The Group will be doing everything in its power to build maximum support within Parliament to ensure you are properly recognised and rewarded for your invaluable role.”
John McDonnell MP said: “The action taken by our members is effectively increasing the pressure on Government ministers. Keep going. Be determined and we will win this dispute. Solidarity.”
Sally Hunt, general secretary of the University and College Union, said: “FBU members defending their pensions and the pensions of future firefighters have the full support of UCU.
“We need to be protected by firefighters who can still do their jobs and who are properly rewarded when the time comes for them to retire.
“We share your exasperations at trying to deal with people who refuse to negotiate. We hope your action brings the government back to the table.”
Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the trade union PCS, said: “PCS sends its solidarity to FBU members on strike to defend the future of the vital service they provide to us all.
“The attack on FBU members’ pensions is the same attack made by government across the public sector, which seeks to recover the costs of the financial sector crash from the pockets of tomorrow’s pensioners. It is an assault on your members, their future and the vital public service they deliver.”
Ronnie Draper, general secretary of the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union, said: “The BFAWU send a message of solidarity to our brothers and sisters in the FBU.
“We urge the employer to get back around the table and recognise that the special demands of a firefighters job mean than special pension provisions have to be put in place.”
Steve Gillan, general secretary of the Prison Officers’ Association, said: “Firefighters do a brilliant job on behalf of the general public and are true professionals.
“It is a complete disgrace that Government are tampering with their terms and conditions like they are with prison officers and other public sector workers. In respect of pension age the POA completely concur with fire fighters fighting for pension justice and fully support the FBU strike.
“It is a shame that management and Government will not engage in meaningful dialogue with the union forcing fire fighters to take strike action. Good luck with your campaign!”
Ian Lawrence, general secretary of the trade union Napo, said: “I am writing on behalf of Napo to offer our solidarity and best wishes as your members take strike action over pensions.
“This action is not easy for your members to take given their strong commitment to their work but it is clear that the responsibility for this situation lies with a Government intent on attacking the hard earned and reasonable entitlements of staff across the public sector.
“Napo is in a fight against privatisation of the Probation Service and you may be aware that we are taking industrial action next Tuesday 5th November from 12 noon till 12 noon Wednesday 6th November. Napo is keen to coordinate with other unions taking industrial action against this Government so if further industrial action is needed in light of your dispute, we hope we can discuss joint action”
