DISAPPOINTED fire chiefs are to begin talks with union bosses over major changes to the service which could affect Bolton.

As reported earlier this week, Greater Manchester County Fire Service is set to undergo a huge revamp in the coming months.

The current five division system will be replaced by three command areas in a move which will mean the loss of 21 officer posts, with some possibly going in the Bolton area.

It is claimed the proposed changes will make the service more cost effective, "flatten" the management structure and create better communications.

Brigade management have stressed that no fire stations will close and no firefighters will lose their jobs.

But worried members of the officers' branch of the Fire Brigade Union have threatened to ballot for industrial action if demands for negotiations are not met.

Yesterday County Fire Officer George Ormond agreed senior divisional officers' current duties and responsibilities would not alter until further talks have been held.

A Brigade spokesman said: "The County Fire Officer has expressed his disappointment over the FBU's 'failure to agree' over certain aspects of the Divisional Review.

"He firmly believes that the issues raised could have been fully addressed during the consultation process, which was extended at the FBU's request."

A Fire Authority meeting will be held next month, but it is hoped the difficulties can be ironed out beforehand. All other aspects of the divisional review are to proceed.

The spokesman added: "The County Fire Officer has stressed that he remains prepared to hold immediate negotiations on any aspect of the Divisional Review implementation which impacts on the conditions of service of Fire Brigade Union members."

But FBU secretary Bob Pounder, who is due to meet the County Fire Officer on Monday, is demanding "wide-ranging" negotiations.

He added: "What I want to look at is the ranks, roles and responsibilities of all officers in the brigade.

"I will be asking to be given time for a working party to be organised and a consultative committee to be created to look at the proposed changes in the brigade."

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