Agenda item

Gill Gittins, Principal Negotiating Officer, updated Members on the latest known position on the pension reform dispute between the FBU and government.  

With regards to the NJC for Local Authority Fire and Rescue Services, there had been positive discussions on working jointly to ensure there was a pay framework alongside terms and conditions in the fire and rescue service which reflected the responsibilities of, and current and future demands on, the service and the profession.

In addition, following receipt of a pay claim, an across the board offer to increase pay by 1.0% had been made. A response would not be received until such time as the Employees’ Side had completed a consultation process.

A claim, seeking an uplift in pay of 1.9%, had also been received in the NJC for Brigade Managers of Local Authority Fire and Rescue Services.  The NJC would consider the claim at its meeting later that day.

Members noted the offer that had been made to local authority employees covered by the NJC for Local Government Services, which would provide those employees with an increase of 1.0% (higher at the bottom of the pay range).  A consultation of members of the unions on that body was underway. It was already known that UNISON members had rejected the offer.  

Members were reminded that all Fire Authorities in England and Wales had been written to with a proposal to put in place a post at the LGA that could advise fire authorities on pension scheme matters. This proposal had arisen from concerns raised by fire authorities.

Decision:

Members noted the report.