In response to the FBU's reaction to the recent pay proposal Councillor Nick Chard, the chair of the fire service employers, issued the following statement:
“In recent weeks, firefighters have responded to some of the most challenging calls imaginable – from terrorist incidents to the tragedy at Grenfell Tower. Their bravery inspires us all, as does their determination to rescue those in danger.”
“We share the view of firefighters, and the unions, that they deserve to be paid more.”
“At the start of this journey, we have offered a figure which is double that originally planned for in budgets. This will be very challenging for fire and rescue authorities who will need to consider how to fund this additional expenditure. But it is a clear sign of our commitment. “
"However, fire and rescue services have had to deal with significantly reduced finances over recent years. Therefore, in order to be able to apply further increases, we will need to urgently call upon governments across the UK, to provide funding which will enable us to do so and deliver change."
"We are firmly committed to ensuring higher levels of pay for firefighters as soon as possible, in the context of agreeing a deal on a new pay framework, which recognises fire authority and community needs around greater flexibility, and our shared aspirations in terms of increased pay for firefighters. We are happy to work with the FBU in doing so.”
