Battle for our fire service goes on

9.07.54pm GMT Wed 25th Mar 2009

The Battle to save the retained firefighters service as we know it will go on, and there may be significant signs of hope. That's the view of Liberal Democrat MEP Bill Newton Dunn.

Speaking with Local Lib Dems, Sarah Hill, Zuffar Haq and Phil Knowles, he confirmed that the revision of the Working Time Directive is under consideration. But it looks as though Britain has secured the support of a significant group of other countries to block the opt out clause from being removed.

Speaking after the discussion, Lib Dem Chairman Phil Knowles said: "This is potentially good news, but we know that it is vital the campaign maintains its momentum.

Cllr Sarah Hill added:

''Zuffar Haq, Phil Knowles, Cllr Roger Dunton and I would urge those who have yet to sign the petition to do so without delay. Retained firefighters give such wonderful service to our community - and many other communities across the country - that we have to do everything possible to secure the future."