Responding to news that the Fire Brigades Union members have passed a motion of no confidence in the interim Chief Fire Officer of South Wales Fire, Joel James MS, Shadow Minister for Social Partnership, said:
I am deeply concerned that, despite the seemingly warm words from both Welsh Government and the commissioners, neither really understand what needs to change in SWFRS.
The Welsh Government’s commissioners have fallen at the very first hurdle in this process. The fact that that they appointed Stuart Millington, someone facing an employment tribunal for bullying, gives the clear message that real change in SWFRS is a long way off.
The vote of no confidence clearly shows that fire service personnel are fed up with the decisions being made at the highest levels of the organisation.
It’s time for the Minister to take direct control of this process so decisions can be properly accountable.
