The week's news August 31, 2012
Links to selected firefighter workplace, industrial, technology and OHS news stories.
Australia
Tas: Myer loses legal action over Hobart fire
Legal action by Myer against the Tasmania Fire Commission over the blaze that destroyed the retail giant's Hobart store 
has been thrown into doubt following a court decision. Justice Alan Blow has ruled that the fire service's immunity under state legislation covers the events surrounding the September 2007 disaster.
Qld: QFRS roster staff strike in support of campaign
Rostering officers at the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) begin a 24-hour strike to protest against cuts to their working conditions. It comes as the United Firefighters Union (UFU) conducts a ballot of members to gauge support for further industrial action - including 'enforcing emergency calls only'.
Brisbane firefighters set to strike.
Brisbane region roster officers stoppage.
Vic: CFA rego blunder blamed on 'system error'
Victoria's Country Fire Authority (CFA) is investigating why more than 20 of its vehicles, including firefighting tankers, were found to be unregistered.
Qld: Stand with us
Every day, Queensland Ambulance Officers and Firefighters are looking after our community. Now we need Queenslanders to stand with us to ensure we get a fair deal.
Vic: New fire levy added to rates
One of the biggest shake-ups of state taxes in decades with the Baillieu government plan to scrap the existing fire services levy.
Government unveils fire levy restructure.
International
UK: Yorkshire fire crews anger
More cuts to front line emergency service: authority proposes to get rid of more fire stations, more fire engines and more firefighters.
NZ: Fears over adequacy of new fire truck
The New Zealand Fire Service plans to replace the only long-ladder and large pump truck in the Wakatipu with a smaller truck with about half the capability.
USA: IAFF fighting back
IAFF members are being targeted by political and legislative threats like never before. None of us can afford to sit back while our opponents launch these assaults.
Bulgaria: Interior minister admits state can not handle wildfires
The country needs specialised firefighting aircraft as well.
USA: Chaplains counsel firefighters
Both former firefighters, the chaplains spent decades at their respective fire departments and say they have the experience needed to relate and counsel firefighters when help is needed.
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