Firefighters take pay fight to Holyrood in ‘biggest protest in years’

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Firefighters say they have been left with “no choice” as they prepare to take their fight pay rise fight to the Scottish Parliament this week.It is set to be the biggest demonstration in years from the service as hundreds of firefighters and supporters take the Fire Brigade Union’s (FBU) campaign to Holyrood.Scottish FBU secretary John McKenzie said firefighters have been risking their lives while facing thousands of pounds in real terms pay cuts.

The union has urged its members to reject the latest 5% pay offer, with a consultative ballot opening on October 31 to November 14.

A further ballot for strike action could follow if the pay offer is rejected.The FBU previously said firefighters were being forced to go to food banks amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Alongside the campaign for fair pay, firefighters will also take their calls to an end to service cuts and for increased staff levels to MSPs.Scottish FBU Secretary John McKenzie said: “Firefighters risk their lives keeping the communities and people of Scotland safe.“Every day our members respond to emergency situations across the country.