The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service have announced that firefighters have voted to accept a revised pay offer.
Union members voted to accept a pay increase of seven per cent effective from July 1 2022 and five per cent effective from July 1 2023.
The National Employers, who negotiate pay on behalf of all Fire and Rescue Services, have also proposed a programme of talks to explore other matters raised in the dispute.
Northern Ireland’s Interim Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, Andy Hearn, welcomed the outcome of the Fire Brigade Union's ballot on the revised pay offer.
He said he was “very pleased" that firefighters voted to accept it.
“From the outset, I have been fully committed to finding a suitable pay offer which recognises the efforts of all our firefighters," he said. "This revised pay offer reflects the dedication and commitment of our firefighters whilst also hopefully alleviating some of the pressures faced during this current financial climate."
Mr Hearn said he was “thankful” that no strike action had been necessary.
“This has allowed us to avoid the implementation of contingency options in Northern Ireland. It allows us to refocus on the continued delivery of a high-quality, effective and efficient fire and rescue service that the people of Northern Ireland rightly expect. Our firefighters are committed to helping keep people safe and improving community wellbeing.”
