As firefighters in England and Wales are halfway through an eight day strike over pensions, the Fire Brigades Union has written again to Penny Mordaunt reminding the Westminster fire minister that firefighters want to resolve this dispute and made clear that a meeting with the minister is the union’s highest priority.
In the letter Andy Dark, FBU assistant general secretary, writes: “FBU negotiators are available to meet any time including prior to and whilst strike action is taking place. Like us, you will have a busy and full diary, however I am certain that other parties who you are scheduled to meet, will recognise the importance of prioritising the joint talks in the same way as those with whom we are due to meet.
“An early meeting will give the necessary assurance to our members, the public and Fire Authorities, that both sides are committed to seeking a conclusion which is satisfactory to both sides and an end to strikes.
“We have been clear to all members, officials and external organisations, that a meeting with the relevant minister is a higher priority than all other appointments and business.”
The union is currently waiting for a response from the minister.
Firefighters in England and Wales are striking for three hours out of every 24 between 1200 – 1400 and 2259 – 2359 until Sunday 17 August in an ongoing dispute over pensions.
