Oxfordshire firefighters claim they're ready to strike
FBU members are unhappy at planned cuts
Firefighters in Oxfordshire say they're ready to strike this summer over planned cuts to the fire and rescue service.
Ninety four percent backed action in a consultative ballot - over concerns five stations could close and dozens of jobs may go.
FBU General Secretary Steve Wright said:
"The result of this consultative ballot could not be clearer. If Oxfordshire County Council don’t move quickly to scrap the proposed cuts, then the likelihood of strike action in the fire and rescue service moves ever closer.
"The proposals we are facing will put public safety, firefighter safety and our communities at risk. This is simply not something we can stand by and let happen. We have written to those responsible for proposing these cuts on this much valued public service to withdraw these proposals.
"There can be no price put on the safety of firefighters and the public we serve, and we will do all we can to stop these cuts from happening. If that means moving to a formal ballot for strike action then that is what we will do.
"It is not too late for those in authority to step back from the edge and do what is right for the fire and rescue service and for the public. As well as our message to Oxfordshire County Council, we will take this argument to Government, to the Fire Minister and to the Prime Minister. They need to be aware of the real damage these cuts will have when it comes to the safety of the public we serve."
Johnny Shuker, Oxfordshire Brigade Secretary said:
"Oxfordshire firefighters are ready to strike this summer if the cuts to our service are not abandoned.
"More wildfires and extreme weather events are expected during the summer months. By refusing to shelve these cuts, the county council is leaving firefighters with no choice but to go on strike during that time.
"It is playing fast and loose with public safety and that of firefighters by pressing ahead with these cutbacks."
The county's Fire and Rescue Service says it's continuing to engage with those involved.
Rob MacDougall, Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service’ Chief Fire Officer, said:
“We are aware of the Fire Brigades Union’s (FBU) non‑statutory ballot. This does not mean industrial action at this stage. We remain committed to open engagement with the FBU and our colleagues as discussions continue.
“Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service is continuing to analyse the feedback received through our public consultation. We will provide a formal response to our communities in April.
“Our priority is, and will always remain, the safety of Oxfordshire’s residents and our firefighter colleagues.”