Firefighters to take eight days of strike action in defence of pensions

Firefighters will take eight days of strike action in a long-running dispute with the government over pensions.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called the action, which will take place on consecutive days from August 19.

Firefighters will be on strike from noon-2pm and from 10.59pm-11.59pm each day.

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The union is in dispute with the government over plans to make firefighters work until they are 60 to claim their pension or lose money if they retire earlier.

Sean Starbuck, FBU national officer, said: “It’s extremely disappointing that we have had to issue more strike dates but the government are simply not listening to our concerns.

“We have a new fire minister but to date she doesn’t appear to have listened to our case.

“The government still has an opportunity to improve their offer which could avoid the need for action.”

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The FBU’s last round of strikes over pensions ended on July 21.

Steve Rhodes, West Yorkshire’s assistant chief fire officer, appealed to the government’s fire minster, Penny Mordaunt, and the FBU to resolve the dispute.

He said: “Providing fire cover continues to challenge West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s ability to deliver a speedy response to the range of emergencies that may occur during the periods of industrial action.

“I would like to reiterate the importance that both the minister and the FBU seek to resolve this dispute at the earliest opportunity to enable us to return to our normal levels of service.”