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13/02/2009 Working Time Directive 'compromises safety' |
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MPs have reportedly voiced their concerns about how the European Union's Working Time Directive (WTD) will affect workers such as retained firefighters.
In a Westminster debate, politicians have argued that the WTD may stop them from opting out of the maximum working week.
Malcolm Bruce, Liberal Democrat MP for Gordon in north-east Scotland, believes the government should ensure retained firefighters can provide vital cover, as many smaller communities do not have the population to maintain full-time services, Workplace Law Network reports.
"The chair of the fire service in Grampian tells me that if the WTD goes ahead it is likely to cost that one fire service £35 million to £100 million to implement and response times will be increased," he said.
He claims that this will result in a significant increase in costs for a reduction in service, which is "not acceptable".
The regulations regarding working time came into force in October 1998. |
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