GFRS pay claim unreasonable, unaffordable and inconsistent, says Government

Government has called the Fire and Rescue Service's pay claim as unreasonable, unaffordable and inconsistent with long-standing agreed arrangements.

Responding to the GFRS move to industrial action, Number Six says it’s unwilling and unable to meet the claim, which is for an additional 7.5% on basic pay.

The Government says Unite the union, representing GFRS, originally asked for an additional 20% on basic pay. This has been reduced to 7.5%, but the Government says it’s rejected this claim consistently over the years and industrial action won’t change this. The Government’s reasoning behind this stance is the fact there have been no material changes to any elements of the role that would justify the introduction of a new premium, allowance or award.

Number Six claims the GFRS argument rests on a comparison with the Airport Fire & Rescue Service. However, it says the two are separate organisations under distinct operational models governed by the UK grey book.

It highlights GFRS personnel are remunerated on an all inclusive salary basis and this is intended to compensate for a full range of duties, including shift work and night duties.

Government says GFRS staff receive significant and competitive salaries and highlights there is low staff turnover and exceptionally strong demand for vacancies when they come out.