Firefighters in Oxfordshire have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action in a consultative ballot in response to planned cuts to the county's fire and rescue service.
Results have been announced today, with firefighters returning a 94% yes vote on a 71% turnout.
The ballot took place in opposition to plans from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service that would see five fire stations close and six fire engines removed. A minimum of 42 firefighters also face losing their jobs under the proposals.
FBU General Secretary Steve Wright said:
"The result of this consultative ballot could not be clearer. If Oxfordshire County Council don’t move quickly to scrap the proposed cuts, then the likelihood of strike action in the fire and rescue service moves ever closer.
"The proposals we are facing will put public safety, firefighter safety and our communities at risk. This is simply not something we can stand by and let happen. We have written to those responsible for proposing these cuts on this much valued public service to withdraw these proposals.
"There can be no price put on the safety of firefighters and the public we serve, and we will do all we can to stop these cuts from happening. If that means moving to a formal ballot for strike action then that is what we will do.
"It is not too late for those in authority to step back from the edge and do what is right for the fire and rescue service and for the public. As well as our message to Oxfordshire County Council, we will take this argument to Government, to the Fire Minister and to the Prime Minister, they need to be aware of the real damage these cuts will have when it comes to the safety of the public we serve.
Johnny Shuker, Oxfordshire Brigade Secretary said:
"Oxfordshire firefighters are ready to strike this summer if the cuts to our service are not abandoned.
"More wildfires and extreme weather events are expected during the summer months. By refusing to shelve these cuts, the county council is leaving firefighters with no choice but to go on strike during that time.
"It is playing fast and loose with public safety and that of firefighters by pressing ahead with these cutbacks."
