Fire Brigades Union chief warns firefighter strike is ‘serious proposition’
The dispute is over pay
Last updated 20th Jul 2022
The leader of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) in Scotland has warned that firefighters could take strike action in a dispute over pay.
FBU Chief, John McKenzie, described strike action as a “very serious proposition” after the union rejected an “insulting” two per cent pay rise earlier this week.
Mr McKenzie has highlighted the work of fire crews in tackling the recent hot weather – with temperatures reaching a record 34.8 degrees celsius in the Scottish Borders on Tuesday.
He explained: "Firefighters are at the forefront of the climate emergency.
"The last few days have brought to the public's attention the dangers we face day in day out."
He said: "We will not accept a paltry pay offer of 2% when the cost of food, fuel, energy and almost everything else is soaring.
"Firefighters have never taken industrial action lightly but such is the level of anger at this insulting offer, industrial action is now a very serious proposition.”
The union said employers need to come back with a genuine and fair pay offer that recognises the financial pressures its members face.
FBU General Secretary, Matt Wrack, said members will consider all options, including strike action.