TD Michael Lowry Welcoming Vote By Retained Firefighters To Accept Proposed Deal By The WRC

Tipperary TD Michael Lowry is welcoming the vote by Retained Firefighters to accept the deal proposed by the Workplace Relations Commission(WRC).  Deputy Lowry says while the ballot will end the current industrial action it does not end the battle. The TD says the WRC proposal is only a first step in a process to improve the Pay and Conditions of Retained Firefighters across Tipperary and nationally. 

Deputy Lowry accepts that SIPTU, who represent the retained firefighters, expects the terms of the WRC document to be delivered in full and in a timely manner. Outstanding issues relating to pay, pension and leave must be resolved in forthcoming round table discussions on a new National Pay Agreement says Deputy Lowry.

The Thurles based TD says he will continue to support the Firefighters in Tipperary as they need and deserve proper recognition for the invaluable service provided to local communities. All twelve of Tipperary’s Fire Stations are staffed by Retained Firefighters – the personnel are paid an annual retainer and most work another full time job. The Retainer will now increase to €18,000 per annum and increase to €21,000 after 8 years of service. Firefighters are paid additional sums for call outs and pre-incident planning and training. 400 additional Retained Firefighters are now to be recruited under the terms of the agreement.