TA exemption shows ministers can do same for retained firefighters - Carmichael (North Tayside Liberal Democrats)

North Tayside Liberal Democrats <info@libdems.org.uk>

TA exemption shows ministers can do same for retained firefighters - Carmichael

February 24, 2009 1:27 PM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Commenting on the Government's announcement that it has obtained an exemption from EU driving hours rules for Territorial Army reservists, Liberal Democrat Shadow Scotland Secretary, Alistair Carmichael said:

Alistair Carmichael MP"This shows that it is possible to obtain exemptions from working hours rules for people who provide a vital service to this country in their spare time.

"If the Government has managed this for TA drivers, then it must be asked why they are taking so long to get a similar exemption in place which could well be needed for retained firefighters.

"These men and women provide a vital service, especially in rural parts of Scotland, which could be put at risk if Britain loses its opt-out from the Working Time Directive. Ministers must ensure the necessary safeguards are in place well ahead of this becoming a done deal."

Notes:

The European Parliament recently voted to end the UK's opt-out from the EU Working Time Directive. Such a move would threaten the work of retained firefighters, who usually provide fire cover part-time on top of another existing full-time job.

UK Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick today announced an exemption from EU drivers' hours rules for TA reservists who drive for a living, to enable them to take part in weekend training.

For more from the campaign click here