The Fire Brigades Union is awaiting further details from government on new proposals for firefighter pensions and has not announced new strike dates, the union confirmed today.
The union’s executive council met on Wednesday (29 January) to consider recent discussions held with the Westminster Fire Minister, Brandon Lewis.
A key element in their current campaign is concerns over the ‘no job no pensions’ issue, with some firefighters facing the prospect of losing around half of their pension merely for their fitness declining past the age of 55.
Negotiations had hit a stumbling block after the government refused to provide a guarantee over the issue through pension scheme regulations as the union had been advised was legally necessary.
However, during recent discussions the Minister suggested a new way of providing a guarantee that would adequately protect firefighters against the threat of capability dismissal owing to an age-related decline in fitness.
And although FBU negotiators “remain unconvinced” about the proposals, the union has said it will consider the Minister’s written proposal and receive legal advice on its contents.
The executive council also heard reports from discussions around FBU concerns regarding the ability of firefighters to work until 60 and the possibility of other proposals which would attempt to address these concerns. It was agreed that further technical work is required on this area.
The executive council will hear a report on any new developments — including from meetings that are currently being scheduled with legal advisors, actuaries and government officials — at their next meeting between 4 and 6 February.
FBU officials will meet the Minister on 11 February, with the executive council due to meet again the following day.
You can read more information on members’ circular 2014HOC0079MW.
