EU Working Time Rules must not threaten our fire fighters - Liz Lynne MEP

3.59.00pm GMT Mon 16th Feb 2009

Liberal Democrat Euro - MP Liz Lynne has today warned that proposed changes to European Working Time laws backed by Labour MEPs could lead to dangerous shortages in fire cover across the UK.

The European Parliament recently voted in favour of proposals to scrap Britain's opt-out from the European Working Time Directive. This could mean that retained firefighters, who often have other jobs, would have to drastically cut the hours they are available to the fire service.

Lib Dem Liz Lynne MEP, who is the only UK shadow rapporteur for the Working Time Directive, on behalf of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats in Europe Group, has campaigned for years to keep the UKs opt out and said today:

"Retained firefighters provide a vital, lifesaving service in many of our local communities and this must be allowed to continue.

"I have always argued that the UK's opt out of the EU Working Time rules must be kept so long it is voluntary, and this applies not just to firefighters but to all workers who decide that they want to work extra hours.

"Scrapping the opt out would not only damage our fire service but would hurt many working people and businesses who are trying to make ends meet in difficult economic times. Workers are of course already covered by Health and Safety legislation including the dangerous machinery directive.

"For months now the Government has had to work with me on this as they couldn't get the support of their own MEPs; let us hope that the Government will hold firm and maintain the opt out in ongoing negotiations between the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Liz Lynne MEP is Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee in the European Parliament, Shadow Rapporteur for the Working Time Directive for the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats in Europe and the only UK shadow rapporteur on the Working Time Directive.

Many areas already have problems with recruiting retained firefighters, with over half of posts unfilled.

The rule changes would not affect most other EU countries where part-time firefighters work on a voluntary basis and are therefore not covered by the opt-out.

ENDS