Fire crews across West Yorkshire are to press ahead with a series of fresh strikes this weekend after accusing the Government of provoking the action.
Members of the Fire Brigades Union in England and Wales will walk out for five hours from noon on Friday, between 2pm on Saturday and 2am on Sunday, and between 10am and 3pm on Sunday in a long-running dispute over pensions.
The union said the strikes could be halted immediately by a revised pensions offer that “takes the evidence into account”.
Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: “It is purely the failure of the Government to present revised proposals that has led to these strikes. Now the Government is walking away from talks. It is utterly irresponsible.
“The FBU has never walked away from discussion and our members have been patient and measured in their approach, but we will not simply stand by while Government imposes a pension scheme that is totally unworkable, unaffordable, unsustainable and unfair.”
West Yorkshire Chief Fire Officer, Simon Pilling, said: “It is disappointing and concerning that negotiations between Government and the FBU have failed to deliver a mutually acceptable resolution to this long running dispute.
“We appeal to both sides to continue discussions with a view to seeking a resolution. Further strikes will only put the public at increased risk”.
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