Agenda item

Simon Pannell, LGA Negotiations, introduced the report which updated the Fire Commission on fire service industrial relations and pension matters since the last meeting.

Simon highlighted that joint work streams were currently in operation on a wide range of issues to examine ways in which core fire service roles could be reinforced. The first phase of work was now complete and the next phase would look at which aspects should be taken forward to a national level and how this should be done. Members welcomed the news that the FBU were working in collaboration on the project.

Members noted that employer members of the NJC for Local Authority Fire and Rescue Services had decided to offer a 1.0% across the board pay increase at their previous meeting. The employees’ side would now consider the offer and it was expected that a response would be received the following week.

Regarding the Thomas Review, it was noted that when a publication date was announced it was hoped that the LGA would receive an embargoed copy so that an appropriate response on behalf of fire and rescue authorities could be drawn together.

Cllr Maurice Heaster, who represented the Fire Commission and FSMC on the Firefighters’’ Pension Committee, highlighted that the Pension Ombudsman had recently upheld a complaint regarding the lack of any review of the commutation factors between 1998 and 2006 by the Government Actuaries Department. The decision would have serious cost implications for the sector, and discussions were underway with the Treasury on the number of people affected and the potential cost to the fire and rescue service.  

In response to a question, it was confirmed that the NJC had agreed in principle to the concept of a Joint Working Group on firefighter’s’ fitness. The Group would consider ways to address aspects of the firefighter role which were physically demanding, identify how to best provide occupational fitness throughout firefighters’ careers and identify actions what employees should take to maintain their fitness, health and wellbeing.

Decision

·         Members noted the issues and updates provided in the report.

Action

·         Further updates on various ongoing issues related to industrial relations and pensions to be provided at the next meeting.