FIREFIGHTERS IN GALWAY have protested outside county buildings after claiming that management are ignoring their requests for better working conditions.

Over 20 members of the fire service gathered outside the building to show their anger at what has been described as a “total lack of respect” shown to firefighters. Every member who was not on-duty today turned up to the demonstration. There was no reduction in service as a result.

The dispute does not involve basic pay conditions, instead it centres on requests made for new uniforms, the non-payment of expenses for attending specialised conferences and sick pay entitlements not being fulfilled.

A member of the fire service, who did not wish to be named, said that there is a possible threat of industrial action if things don’t change.

He said: “It’s not about pay or holidays, it’s about management refusing to talk to us. There’s a total lack of disrespect. They’re directing everything through HR. They’ve cut us out of the picture and we’re kind of sick of it at this stage.”

Last week, Roscommon fire service gave notice to the Council that it is to go on strike.

The action relates to a brigade order sent out late last year which would require five officers instead of the usual six to attend the scene of a fire.

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