Oxfordshire firefighters back strike action over cuts

Results from a consultative ballot announced on Tuesday afternoon (March 31) reveal 94 per cent of firefighters said ‘yes’ to strike action on a 71 per cent turnout.

Threats have been made that unless the cuts are scrapped, strike action could be seen this summer.

Oxfordshire County Council‘s Fire and Rescue Service is looking to close five fire stations, remove six fire engines and axe 42 firefighters under the proposals.

Stations in Henley, Woodstock and Eynsham would be shut down while Rewley Road and Kidlington would also be shut to merge together in North Oxford.

Steve Wright, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (Image: Matt Simpson)

Fire Brigade Union’s general secretary Steve Wright said the result “could not be clearer” and warned that if the council doesn’t “move quickly to scrap” the proposals, strike action “moves ever closer”.

Mr Wright, a firefighter in Oxfordshire for two decades, said: “The proposals we are facing will put public safety, firefighter safety and our communities at risk.

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“This is simply not something we can stand by and let happen.

“We have written to those responsible for proposing these cuts on this much valued public service to withdraw these proposals.

“There can be no price put on the safety of firefighters and the public we serve, and we will do all we can to stop these cuts from happening.

“If that means moving to a formal ballot for strike action then that is what we will do.

“It is not too late for those in authority to step back from the edge and do what is right for the fire and rescue service and for the public.

Fire engines..Pic by Jon Lewis..1

“As well as our message to Oxfordshire County Council, we will take this argument to government, to the fire minister and to the prime minister.

“They need to be aware of the real damage these cuts will have when it comes to the safety of the public we serve.”

Johnny Shuker, Oxfordshire brigade secretary, added firefighters are ready to strike as soon as this summer if the cuts are not abandoned.

“More wildfires and extreme weather events are expected during the summer months,” said Mr Shuker.

“By refusing to shelve these cuts, the county council is leaving firefighters with no choice but to go on strike during that time.

“It is playing fast and loose with public safety and that of firefighters by pressing ahead with these cutbacks.”

Oxfordshire County Council has been approached for further comment.