Industrial action by firefighters cancelled

Fire services were due to go strike tomorrow (Saturday) for five hours between 6.30pm and 11.30pm.

The action was planned due to an on-going trade dispute between the Fire Brigades Union and the Government over proposals to introduce a new pension scheme for firefighters to replace the two current pension schemes that most operational personnel are members of.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service have welcomed the decision for the postponement of tomorrow’s planned five hour firefighters strike by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

The dispute is not between the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority and its staff and a resolution can only be achieved at a national level.

Simon Pilling Chief Fire Officer for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Of course I am pleased that the strike planned for Saturday evening has been called off, this will mean that firefighters can continue to protect the communities of West Yorkshire in the dedicated and professional manner that they do every other day of the year.

“Although I understand that the dispute is not resolved, this positive step from the FBU is encouraging and I hope that the constructive dialogue that has clearly taken place this week can continue and result in a full and final settlement to this dispute without any need for further strike action.”