Merseyside Fire Authority Stirs Up More Trouble
Neon Black | 30.11.2006 19:32 | Social Struggles | Workers' Movements | Liverpool
Following the partial defeat of their cuts agenda this summer, Merseyside Fire Authority is trying to get its own back, and weaken the morale of victorious firefighters. Three weeks ago, letters were served to fourteen emergency crew members, calling them to hearings over incidents during the walkout, including one for 'smiling aggressively'. Now a firefighter is in trouble for drinking a cup of tea!
After four weeks of strike action this September, Merseyside FBU succeeded in saving essential services from 3.5 million of cuts demanded by the government. Instead, the cuts were moved away from the frontline.
Now, a firefighter faces disciplinary proceedings after being caught having a cuppa while working at Buckley Hill fire station in Netherton.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service insists tea breaks can be taken only at certain times, and the first firefighter to break the rule was caught with an unauthorised mug of tea while checking equipment in an appliance room.
Managers launched an investigation and told the firefighter - who has asked not to be named - that he would be put on a charge and face disciplinary proceedings once his initial interview was looked at.
Les Skarratts, secretary of Merseyside Fire Brigades Union, said: "They should stop being so petty and ridiculous. Firefighters save lives and they have enough to put up with without this nonsense.
"This firefighter was doing his daily checks and tests in the appliance room, and had taken a hot drink with him. That is not worthy of a disciplinary investigation.
"He will be interviewed by senior managers and undergo a disciplinary hearing. He could get a written warning on an otherwise exemplary service record, but the ultimate sanction is that he could lose his job."
Senior officers have sent a series of emails banning firefighters from enjoying a cuppa outside designated breaks.
Mr Skarratts said: "It is a waste of public money and firefighters' time issuing these edicts. We are very frustrated over this."
Firefighters on Merseyside have a lot to smile about following their tremendous victory, which was won thanks to great solidarity, in spite of a corporate media campaign against the union. Not surprisingly, the bosses who tried to break the FBU can't bear to see happy - or even relaxed - workers.
For in-depth analysis of the dispute, visit
http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/regions/liverpool/2006/09/351022.html
Now, a firefighter faces disciplinary proceedings after being caught having a cuppa while working at Buckley Hill fire station in Netherton.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service insists tea breaks can be taken only at certain times, and the first firefighter to break the rule was caught with an unauthorised mug of tea while checking equipment in an appliance room.
Managers launched an investigation and told the firefighter - who has asked not to be named - that he would be put on a charge and face disciplinary proceedings once his initial interview was looked at.
Les Skarratts, secretary of Merseyside Fire Brigades Union, said: "They should stop being so petty and ridiculous. Firefighters save lives and they have enough to put up with without this nonsense.
"This firefighter was doing his daily checks and tests in the appliance room, and had taken a hot drink with him. That is not worthy of a disciplinary investigation.
"He will be interviewed by senior managers and undergo a disciplinary hearing. He could get a written warning on an otherwise exemplary service record, but the ultimate sanction is that he could lose his job."
Senior officers have sent a series of emails banning firefighters from enjoying a cuppa outside designated breaks.
Mr Skarratts said: "It is a waste of public money and firefighters' time issuing these edicts. We are very frustrated over this."
Firefighters on Merseyside have a lot to smile about following their tremendous victory, which was won thanks to great solidarity, in spite of a corporate media campaign against the union. Not surprisingly, the bosses who tried to break the FBU can't bear to see happy - or even relaxed - workers.
For in-depth analysis of the dispute, visit
http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/regions/liverpool/2006/09/351022.html
Neon Black
Homepage:
http://dreaming-neon-black.blogspot.com
Additions
the Law
30.11.2006 20:22
The Employment Law states you are entitled to take a reasonable short breaks of 15 minuets in total per 8 hour day for refreshment or toilet purposes in between statuary meal breaks employers may give additional breaks at the time of their choosing but must not deny the statuary requirement breaks which employees must be allowed to take for refreshment and toilet needs or place implications upon the time at which the breaks can be taken, however it is fair that the employee should have completed at least one hours work but it is not a legal requirement, However employers may insist that employees do not leave the place of work during these times, providing suitable refreshment and toilet facilities are provided with in the confines of such area
to deny a employee these basic human requirements is a direct in breach of the Employment Policy & Legislation Working Time Regulations.
to deny a employee these basic human requirements is a direct in breach of the Employment Policy & Legislation Working Time Regulations.
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