Poll: Is it irresponsible for fire crews to strike this weekend as people attend bonfires and fireworks displays?
A four-day strike by firefighters while thousands of people across the region will be holding bonfire and firework parties has been branded 'irresponsible' by MPs.
This weekend is normally one of the busiest times of the year for the fire service.
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Wolverhampton South West MP Paul Uppal said: "The fire service do a tremendous job but this strike action could not come on a worse possible date. Everyone knows that bonfire weekend is a time where families and friends come together - this strike will cause concern and disruption amongst my constituents hoping to enjoy themselves. On one of the busiest weekends for the fire service the timing is frankly irresponsible."
And South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson said: "I am sure all the firefighters, if there is a major incident, will be ready to respond, but it is disappointing a strike has been called at such a peak time when so many people across the region will be attending firework or bonfire shows. I am quite sure there is a time for all parties to get around the table and get together a sensible solution so a strike that nobody wants can be avoided, especially at this bonfire weekend."
A series of strikes have been held over the past 18 months in protest at changes to pensions and the retirement age, which the union has claimed could lead to firefighters losing their job if they fail fitness tests in their late 50s.
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