30,000 sign petition against Devon and Somerset fire cuts
Firefighters in Devon and Somerset are today handing in a petition with over 30,000 signatures from members of the public, calling on the service to scrap plans to ‘decimate’ fire services in the area.
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has asked for a representative from the principal management team of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) to accept the petition, but have twice been told to hand it in to reception.
The union has been campaigning across the region, seeking the support of local residents and business owners.
James Leslie, Devon and Somerset brigade secretary, said:
“It’s disgraceful that fire service bosses won’t look firefighters in the eye as we hand in this petition with massive support from the public. They are happy to go on TV and social media to sell these dangerous proposals but run away and hide when the hit by the reality that the public do not support these dangerous proposals.
“Over 30,000 people have signed our petition and not one member of the principle management team could be bothered to take the time out of their day to accept this petition. It’s shameful.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all our members who have been out there campaigning against the cuts. We have been on the ground across all parts of the region, talking to the public about the effects these cuts will have, and have gained huge support. Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. We will not stop until these cuts have been well and truly disbanded.”
Devon and Somerset fire and rescue service is currently consulting on proposals which could close eight fire stations and scrap or cut fire cover of over 30 fire engines across the counties. The Fire Brigades Union has warned that the plans will “demolish” frontline services leaving public safety at risk.
