The Fire Brigades Union strike ballot results were crucial to achieving the new offer. Last week, 88% of firefighters and control room staff in England, Scotland and Wales voted in favour of strike action on pay on a 73% turnout. In Northern Ireland, 94% voted in favour. The union has said it will have an “honest and sober” discussion of the offer, which still amounts to a real terms pay cut given the rate of inflation. Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said:’Today, firefighters were given a new pay offer. This offer is testament to the power of collective action through the Fire Brigades Union. Last year we were offered an insulting 2%. The employers have now revised their position.
