Two months to save opt out for retained firefighters - McArthur (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine Liberal Democrats)

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine Liberal Democrats <info@aberdeensouthlibdems.org.uk>

Two months to save opt out for retained firefighters - McArthur

March 18, 2009 12:01 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Liam McArthur MSP, Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs spokesperson, has renewed his call for the UK opt out of the 48 hour week, which forms part of the European Working Time Directive (EWTD), to be kept.

Discussions get under way in Brussels today to review the opt out decision before the European Parliament begins summer recess in May.

Liberal Democrats in Edinburgh, London and Brussels are campaigning for retained firefighters to keep their right to opt out of the Directive. There are concerns that the plan to scrap the UK opt out would seriously affect fire and rescue services across the UK.

Liam McArthur MSPCommenting, Mr McArthur said:

"There are only two months to save the opt out for retained firefighters.

"Scottish Liberal Democrats are determined that sufficient flexibility is allowed in the EWTD so that retained firefighters can continue to provide lifesaving fire and rescue services. This flexibility is essential, particularly for our rural and remote areas.

"Despite originally calling our campaign unhelpful, I am pleased that the SNP have now decided to join the Liberal Democrats and the Retained Firefighters Union in ensuring that key local services are safeguarded."

Elspeth Attwooll, Scottish Liberal Democrat MEP, added:

"I have made sure that the European Parliament's negotiating team is fully aware of the situation. It is essential that we reach an outcome that allows our valuable and valued system of retained firefighters to continue to function."