The Union, the Chiefs & Deputies Society and the PSA met with Fire Service management Paula Beever, Janine Hearn (Director of Human resources) and Michelle Richards this morning.

Initially there was considerable discussion regarding the consultation process. In this regard, the Union expressed concern that although initially raised as a concern some months ago, a document for discussion was only available at the meeting.

The Fire Service draft was discussed amongst the Union parties and subsequent to that discussion the Fire Service agreed to:

• Withdraw their draft document
• Produce a further document that addresses issues such as a need to update a Fire Safety Officer’s job description to recognise the already changed focus in the role and the effect of legislative changes (Building & Evacuation legislation).

If what the Union was told as a result of the discussion is correct, there will be little, if anything by way of change to a Fire Safety Officers present job.

Certainly there is no suggestion of any threat or risk to current jobs.