Merseyside could lose full-time fire crews

Merseyside firefighters opposed the deal which ended the dispute

Merseyside may lose its full-time fire service as part of the national modernisation plans, it has emerged.

Until now regulations dating back to the 1940s have ensured that all Merseyside's fire stations were staffed by full-time crews.

Merseyside is the only region outside London to have such a system.

The Fire Authority on Merseyside is keen to adopt a far more flexible approach.

It has already controversially voted in favour of introducing part-time cover in Formby and parts of Wirral.

Consultation promised

Chief Fire Officer Tony McGuirk says the public will be fully consulted on any changes.

But unions and some councillors are against the proposals, saying introducing part time hours at fire stations could put lives at risk.

The plans follow the firefighters' pay dispute in which the force agreed to look at modernisation in return for a 16% pay rise.

But Merseyside firefighters overwhelmingly rejected the deal and are set to oppose the plans.