Provision of an independent seat on the fire authority

Conference notes that in 19 out of 29 European countries there is some provision for worker’s representation on company boards, and a study based on interviews with worker board representatives in 13 European companies presents a picture of worker representatives making a genuine difference to the way in which decisions are made, with their role contributing to the formation of a more balanced corporate strategy. The TUC has long argued for worker representation on company boards as one element of wider corporate governance reform.

Conference asks that all Brigades should request that the FBU be provided representation on the Authority controlling fi re governance as an independent (non-elected) member. This position would be in a non-voting capacity.

Our appointment would facilitate a voice on the decision-making body by allowing a fresh external perspective, will open debate and will drive scrutiny and promote excellence. The role of a worker representative would be viewed as being responsible for bringing the perspective of a worker to the Authority, rather than for directly representing all Fire and Rescue Service workers.

Conference will be aware, the Prime Minister has announced plans to put workers on boards, something already in place in Germany and France, where workplace representatives make up over half of corporate supervisory boards. This proposal has expanded on the Labour Party’s 2015 election manifesto which called on employee representation on corporate compensation committees.

Workers’ interests are affected by the priorities and decisions of organisational boards and it is therefore a matter of justice that they should be represented within those discussions. Workforce relationships are central to organisational success and worker board representation would help the Fire Governance Authority to manage these key stakeholder relationships more effectively.

Conference therefore requests that all Brigade Committees request that their respective Fire Governance Body grants (or confers the following rights to the FBU) a seat on the Fire Authority to:

• be provided with papers for meetings (including those to be considered in private session unless a confl ict of interest exists)

• be briefed appropriately before meetings

• attend meetings (and remain during items considered in private session)

• speak at meetings

• be granted trade union leave (paid) to attend those meetings.

With Authority’s support, the application and acceptance will send a clear message that Industrial relations and workers’ rights are at the very heart of the Governing Body’s strategy and administration.