THE continuing dispute between the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and Herts County Council means firefighters could take strike action for a fourth time over proposed cuts to the service. On Monday, the FBU and county council had five hours of talks, but were

THE continuing dispute between the Fire Brigades' Union (FBU) and Herts County Council means firefighters could take strike action for a fourth time over proposed cuts to the service.

On Monday, the FBU and county council had five hours of talks, but were still unable to resolve their differences.

FBU spokesman Ben Read said: "Talks have broken down. But despite the dispute we left on good terms.

"There's a possibility we will go on another strike, but that has not been confirmed."

There are no more talks planned at the moment until firefighters meet to discuss the issue.

Meanwhile, the firefighters came under attack at a meeting of Royston Town Council's general purposes and highways committee on Monday evening.

Cllr Rod Kennedy claimed the Fire Brigades' Union was being "bloody-minded" and did not want to lose power.

"It beggars belief that they go on strike to improve safety," he said.

"The truth of the matter is the FBU is stirring up trouble."

Royston's Herts county councillor Doug Drake said he believed the dispute would continue for some time as both sides appeared to be "digging in their heels".

He said he was still concerned about weekend cover for Royston, especially as retained firefighters do not have training to handle a toxic incident.

Cllr Drake added: "Royston firefighters want a staff of 14 and the county council says it is not moving.