FIREFIGHTERS in Essex are balloting for strike action over pensions.
They are taking part in a national ballot, with the results expected by the end of the month.
The Fire Brigades Union claims changes to the pension scheme mean firefighters would be expected to work longer to get their full pensions.
It also says firefighters would have to contribute more from their pay.
FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said: “Expecting large numbers of 60-year-olds to fight fires and rescue families is dangerous to the public and to firefighters.
“The Government is simply ignoring the evidence about the physical demands of firefighting.”
A spokesman for the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “The public in Essex should be reassured the service is well prepared and tested resilience arrangements, which means we are able to provide fire cover throughout any period of staff absence, including strike action."
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