Job loss fears in fire shake-up

Jobs could be lost as part of a plan to merge Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service with neighbouring Warwickshire to cut costs, it emerged today.

Bosses believe the two services should be merged to slash spiralling running costs. Fire Brigade Union Members say the services are facing financial constraints.

This is due to capping by the Government and say the authorities must merge to balance the books and try and reduce the impact on council tax bills.

There were fears today that duplication of some roles caused by the proposed merger could results in job losses, although numbers are not known at this stage.

Savings are also unclear as a detailed business case still has to be drawn up. Religning the vacancies policy alone could make savings of £137,000 it has emerged.

A report states whatever option is followed – that is keeping the service the same or merging – jobs will be under threat.

It states: "Some management and specialist posts may have to be reduced in the future to meet efficiency targets and to support core business."

The brigade chairman of the FBU Peter Hope said today: "It's a catch 22 situation. Basically the spending will outstrip income in the next three years which would cause serious financial problems. It is unclear what savings will be made but it would be more efficient to merge the two services. But the meat has been cut from the bone already."

A list of pros and cons have been drawn up to look at the merger in more detail.

Early discussions have found it is in the interests of both Hereford and Worcester and Warwickshire fire services to proceed with a "structural collaboration" which will become a "full combination" by 2010.

The plans were due to be considered at a meeting of Hereford Fire and Rescue Authority today.