Support for FBU in Greater Manchester dispute

The North West TUC would like to add its support to the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) following the announcement that Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service (GMF&RS) has issued notice under section 188 of TULRA which would mean dismissal for staff unless they accept the imposed changes to their contract. 

This decision must be condemned, as it is little more than method to unilaterally impose non-agreed contracts on over 1200 firefighters. Making changes without the agreement of the workforce is likely to damage morale and the service, at a time when the vital role our firefighters do should be respected and protected. 

Making changes in such a way as this, breaks the very procedures that are intended to avoid disputes. The employer, by withdrawing from these agreed procedures, is acting deliberately and is likely to force a dispute. 

We call on GMF&RS to withdraw the notice of dismissal and get back around the table with the FBU. We offer our full support to the FBU and their members in this matter.