On 16 September 2011 RFU President and Warwickshire RFU Chair, Anthony Morgan on behalf of the RFU and Chief Fire Officer Graeme Smith on behalf of Warwickshire FRS and Warwickshire Fire Authority, signed a Consultation and Negotiation Agreement which formalises the relationship between all parties.

CFO Smith and Warks RFU Committee signing the agreement

Local officials in Warwickshire have for a number of years worked very hard with the Service to formulate a good working relationship dealing with a number of sensitive subjects including the proposed closure of seven Retained Fire Stations in the county.

The signed agreement will formulise this relationship and provide better protection for RFU members locally.

Committee members, Dexter Plumridge and Andy Frost who have been instrumental in attending meetings and supporting me were also present at the signing. 

"I know this is only the beginning and the hard work starts now, recent developments on public sector pensions will no doubt be another challenge, but with this agreement we can demonstrate we are a credible alternative when representing Retained firefighters across Warwickshire."