Discussions over special measures as NI firefighters vote for strike action

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The interim chief fire officer in Northern Ireland said discussions are ongoing over “special arrangements” to cover emergencies if firefighters go on strike. Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service interim chief fire and rescue officer Andy Hearn said he respects the result of the ballot. He said: “I wholly support a pay increase for our firefighters and absolutely recognise the right of firefighters to participate in peaceful strike action. I want to reassure the community that we are doing everything we can to resolve this national issue Andy Hearn, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service “In terms of contingency planning, discussions are ongoing with the FBU to reach clarity about the special arrangements they are prepared to agree for NIFRS, which would enable firefighters to respond to certain categories of high-risk calls should a strike go ahead.