A UNION has welcomed a move by fire chiefs to call off a proposed 'sacking' of all Greater Manchester firefighters.

Last week, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority said it was considering terminating the contracts of all 1,250 of the county's firefighters and re-employing most of them on contracts, compelling staff to work 12-hour shifts from next April.

That drew criticism from the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), which responded by threatening strike action, and 20,000 people signed a petition against the proposals.

The threat has now been withdrawn, though talks will still take place to consider how the authority can reduce costs amid budget cuts.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said: "This is a very welcome move that will allow both parties to engage in discussions about the detail of the proposals to implement the planned cuts to the service's budget without the threat of action by either party.

"We have confirmed that we will participate fully in talks facilitated through the independent Technical Advisory Panel (TAP), with both parties engaging constructively in discussions to ensure the safety of the public."

The authority is represented by councillors from the county's ten councils. Bury's representative is Cllr Joan Grimshaw and the chairman is Cllr David Action, who said: "I have today agreed to withdraw the Section 188 letter issued to the FBU." The letter formally warned the FBU that contracts could be terminated.

Cllr Action added: "I have taken this step in order to facilitate talks through the TAP (today).

"Both parties are entering the talks constructively. This is a welcome move that will allow both parties to engage in discussions about our proposals without the threat of action by either party.

"The TAP will publish its report within 14 days.

"We must not forget that these changes have been proposed because of continuing cuts by the Government and the Government has imposed a further cut of £14.4m over the next four years."