Members will by now have read Region Notices 44 and 46 from FRM Butt. The Auckland Local has some difficulties with a number of statements in those Region Notices.
The move to re-advertise acting DCFO positions is somewhat puzzling, considering the reasons the Local gave for the three previous temporary appointees returning to their previous substantive positions. The situation surrounding this has not changed, and we are still having difficulty filling positions on fire appliances to maintain MSM.
Members are also reminded that Peter Wilding is not a substantive AFRM. He is a substantive DCFO. He is at present wearing AFRM rank markings but has not been promoted to that position. The Auckland Local is concerned that yet another non operational Officer has been placed on the CFO operational roster.
It is pleasing to note that the substantive DCFO position in Waitakere is going to be advertised, and members are encouraged to apply for this position in the normal manner when the advertisement appears.
The question of driving for the second shift when on duty for 24 hours continues to be a problem, and the Local is in discussions with AFRM Binning and Acting CFO Auckland City East to work out a solution which does not compromise the liability, if prosecuted, of our members who may be asked to drive on the second shift.
The present situation is that until the responses from the Fire Service are discussed with Management and certain assurances received, no firefighter should drive on the second shift of a 24 hour duty period. If there are no drivers available, the Roster Officer should go to the second or third call-back watch. The Auckland Local is very reluctant to temporarily transfer staff from station to cover driving positions, when it is mismanagement by the Fire Service, which has caused this situation in the first place.
It is hoped that the situation will be resolved in the very near future, however, whatever the outcome of discussions, it will still be forbidden by law for a firefighter or officer to drive a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight which exceeds 14 tonnes, on the second shift of a 24 hour duty period. This will encompass Type 4 & 5 Aerials and water tankers. These appliances, of course, require the driver to hold a Class 4 Driving Licence.
Members will be advised of any further developments when and if they arise.
