Pay for skills

Conference notes that pay scales within the fire and rescue service are relatively flat. This has been highlighted by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) during pay negotiations. However, it cannot be forgotten that this lack of pay progression for firefighters does nothing to encourage the learning of new skills.

Conference also notes that FBU Members across the country have taken on skills to aid the fire and rescue service in providing a response to a wide range of incidents. On most occasions, firefighters take on these skills purely based on which station they serve from.

Outside of the fire and rescue service, employees may take on additional skills to improve promotion opportunities or to progress their pay. Within the fire and rescue service, taking on skills such as driving, animal rescue, aerial ladder operators or swift water rescue does not come with increased promotion opportunities or remuneration. It is simply another skill to maintain, more equipment to check and more calls to respond to.

Conference instructs the Executive Council (EC) to pursue a fair system of pay to remunerate individuals who take on additional skills beyond what is required to maintain competence as a firefighter or officer.

The EC must include this in the further negotiations with the aim of implementing for the 2024 pay award.