Firefighters assembled from all parts of Scotland to show the strength of feeling regarding the proposed changes to their pension schemes. We estimate that over 350 FBU members attended and over 170 Scottish Police Federation members, who are facing changes to what is a similar scheme to our own, joined them. This was a very impressive show by members and something that politicians cannot ignore.
The Scottish Firefighters Pensions Forum met Tuesday 26th in Edinburgh. The first business was unfortunately to confirm that the UK Government have put in place the year 2 members contribution increase. This was particularly disappointing after the work that was gone into regarding the potential level of opt-outs. The Scottish Government confirmed that in line with the correspondence (available in Resources) between Cabinet Secretary for Finance, John Swinney and Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander, they will be be making an identical increase.
We are now just over one week away from the Scottish pensions rally at Parliament. This will be the most significant gathering of firefighters so far in this campaign and is an ideal opportunity for our members to put pressure on Scottish politicians over the UK Govt pension changes. A number of busses are running from across the country and we encourage you to attend. Contact your local officials for departure times and pick-up points.
Planning is well underway for the pensions rally and demonstration on 28 March. Members will be arriving from all over Scotland and will assemble in front of the Scottish Parliament. Details of travel arrangements will be circulated but do make sure you get a seat on the bus by booking early. Contact your branch rep for more info. The General Secretary Matt Wrack will update the rally on the current position. Other speakers will be confirmed nearer the time.