[Part Two]
However, having said that, there are serious failings on both sides when it comes to the negotiations over this reform. Firstly, they have been going on for more than a year with no significant progress or concessions from either side. Secondly, the FBU’s cynical strategy of calling a strike on November 5th beggars belief. But lastly, the gung-ho attitude of Brian Coleman, chairman of the London Fire Authority, who threatens to sack firefighters who refuse to sign new contracts, does not come at the top of the list of industrial relations good practice. Mr Coleman was interviewed on LBC today. He suggested that a man whose house had burnt down in a blaze that was tackled by a stand-in crew during the last strike, and who criticised the stand-in crew may have “hidden allegiances”. So it seems now people are happy to see their house burnt down so long as they can make a political point. Priceless!
I believe the proposals are to retain the eight day shift pattern but change the shifts to two twelve hour shifts. This does not seem too drastic and may even help those employees with second jobs. But the FBU does not like the management’s bully boy tactics and management want to exert their muscles. This dispute needs a speedy resolution or it will end in tears. But it seems the two protagonists are probably not the best bodies to achieve a settlement.