6 March 2023
Northern Ireland’s Interim Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, Andy Hearn, has welcomed the outcome of the Fire Brigades Union ballot for a revised pay offer.
Firefighters have voted to accept a pay increase of 7 per cent effective from 1 July 2022 and 5 per cent effective from 1 July 2023.
The National Employers, who negotiate pay on behalf of all Fire & Rescue Services across the UK, have also proposed a programme of talks to explore the other matters raised in this claim.
Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) Interim Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Andy Hearn said:
“I am very pleased that Firefighters have accepted the revised pay offer. From the outset, I have been fully committed to finding a suitable pay offer which recognises the efforts of all our Firefighters. This revised pay offer reflects the dedication and commitment of our Firefighters whilst also hopefully alleviating some of the pressures faced during this current financial climate.
“I am thankful that industrial action has been averted. This has allowed us to avoid the implementation of contingency options in Northern Ireland. It allows us to refocus on the continued delivery of a high quality effective and efficient fire and rescue service that the people of Northern Ireland rightly expect. Our Firefighters are committed to helping keep people safe and improving community wellbeing.”