The regional fire service is takin part in industrial action today for an improved early retirement scheme, by responding only to emergency call-outs.
With this protest, the regional fire service is in line with a national day of industrial action. Of the 25 safety regions, 20 are taking part in the protest organised by the FNV trade union.
Up till now, firemen could make use of a special scheme to take early retirement, due to the physical and mental pressure of their work. Changes in law and regulations mean that is no longer possible. Members of the fire service want the scheme reinstated.
Responding only to emergency call-outs means that they will not carry out any maintenance or cleaning work today. In addition, a number of fire-stations are organising friendly protests such as collecting money for the Brandwondenstichting (Foundation for Burns Injuries) or information sessions.
Source: Studio040
Translation: Lizzie Kean (LinkedIn)
