Merseyside fire control strike called off after last-minute negotiations

An eight-day strike in Merseyside’s fire control room has been called off following last-minute negotiations between the FBU and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service leaders.

Fire Brigades Union members in the control room had voted 100% to strike on a turnout of 92% earlier this year and were set to strike for eight consecutive days from 27 December.

But in negotiations, fire service management came forward with a revised offer which will improve the work-life balance of control room staff, as well as introducing an agreed duty shift system with a pay uplift of £6880 per year. Staff will also be compensated if they agree to change shifts at short notice.

At a meeting on 21 December, FBU members in fire control voted to accept the offer. Formal letters were sent today (22 December) confirming the end of the dispute in the control room.

Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said:

 “This is a positive outcome for both fire control staff and the wider public in Merseyside, and demonstrates clearly the benefits of collective bargaining. By sitting down with our employers, we were able to hammer out an agreement which was acceptable to all parties.

“The agreement will substantially improve the work-life balance for staff and means that they will be working on an agreed terms and conditions.

“It was only possible because of the hard work and determination of local members and officials, and because of the solidarity they received from their colleagues and the wider community. The Fire Brigades Union would like to congratulate all involved.

“We look forward to working with employers to resolve the wider dispute in Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in the New Year.”