Firefighters strike over pensions
Firefighters were on strike today for the fourth time in a row over pensions, accusing the Government of worsening its proposals.
Members of the Fire Brigades Union – FBU – walked out for four hours from 10am, forcing brigades to use contingency plans again, including hiring contractors to replace strikers.
Picket lines were mounted outside fire stations for the fourth time in recent weeks, including at West Bromwich Fire Station, off the A41 island.
Around seven firefighters gathered there from the start of today's industrial action.
The FBU said firefighters who are forced to retire before 60 because of declining fitness could now receive pensions of just over £9,000 a year as a result of the latest Government proposals.
Previous proposals were withdrawn because of the failure to reach agreement, and the FBU said the coalition plans to 'punish' firefighters who are forced to retire at 55.
General secretary Matt Wrack said: "After 35 years of service, and paying at least £4,000 a year, firefighters could now receive just over £9,000 a year or the sack simply because fitness declines as they get older.
"Firefighters simply want an affordable and workable pension that reflects the job we do. But with employee costs going up, firefighters are being priced out, threatening the scheme's sustainability.
"We're keen to resolve this through negotiations, but the Government is simply ignoring all the evidence we have submitted."
