The
government has confirmed it is to review pay in the Fire Service.
It is
to launch an independent review, headed by Sir George Bain, of the Fire Service
including the controversial area of pay.
Unions
have threatened to strike unless firefighters receive a 40 per cent pay rise,
giving staff an average extra £9,000 a year – moving their annual salary to
£30,000.
The
Fire Service Minister, Nick Raynsford, said: "We all greatly value the
contribution that Fire Service staff make to public safety. They are rightly
held in high regard for their professionalism and dedication.
"This
independent review will be an excellent opportunity to consider the issues
facing the Fire Service, including pay.
"I
am delighted to say that Professor Sir George Bain has agreed to conduct the
review."
He
added: "This review provides an alternative to what would be unnecessary
and deeply damaging industrial action.
"There
is no time to lose and I hope that the review will start and report its
findings as soon as possible, allowing for the necessary consultation and
consideration of what are some difficult and complex issues."
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