TUC shows support for striking firefighters

Commenting on the 24-hour strike which will see firefighters in England walk out from 9am today (Tuesday) in their ongoing dispute with the government over forced changes to their pensions, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“It’s disappointing that ministers have not been able to agree a pensions deal with firefighters when the governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have all made progress towards a settlement. 

“Ministers seem determined to force through these harsh and unfair changes that even their own advice suggests are wrong and unworkable. These would either see firefighters suffering huge health and safety challenges as they get older and less fit, or experiencing massive cuts to their pensions if they feel unable to stay in the service as their retirement approaches.

“The TUC supports the FBU’s call for a full Parliamentary debate on the government’s complete and utter mishandling of this issue.”

NOTES TO EDITORS:
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Liz Chinchen   T: 020 7467 1388    M: 07778 158175   E: media@tuc.org.uk
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Clare Santry   T: 020 7467 1372    M: 07717 531150   E: csantry@tuc.org.uk