Firefighters to walk out in pensions dispute Although the Fire Brigades Union secured the support of 80 per cent of members who participated in the ballot, the 18,277 who voted yes represented less than half the total membership of just under 40,000. The power to strike (and the immunity from being sued for the consequences) is unique to union bosses. It allows a minority to wield considerable power over the majority. That is why a safeguard is required to prevent abuse. The case for reform remains as compelling as ever. As this week's FBU strike demonstrates, the hard-working majority need protection from the disruption and chaos threatened by out-of-touch union leaders wielding undemocratic strike powers. The Fire Brigades Union has described the walkout as a warning shot to the Government in a dispute over the money paid to firefighters over 50 who are forced to retire because they fail to meet fitness standards. Contingency in plans are in place across the country, which will either involve non-striking firefighters, or, in London, the use of contractors such as Securitas. In the event of a major incident, under an agreement reached with the union leadership, the strike would be suspended and firefighters return to work. The Green Goddesses used during the last fire dispute have since been sold to Malta.