BARRY firefighters issued a stark warning to the town when they called a public meeting last week.

To put an end to the confusion over why the Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is still taking strike action, a question and answer session was organised by the union representatives from the Port Road station on Monday, February 10 at the leisure centre.

The meeting was held in a packed cafeteria, and saw Plaid Cymru councillors Nic Hodges, Steffan William and Plaid leader Chris Franks attending.

Firefighter Rob Salter began with a presentation, stating why they were picketing.

He said: "I'm not here tonight to try and sway your political persuasions. I don't care who you vote for.

"I am here to tell you what we think 'modernisation' means.

It means cuts in the service, and taking us further away from you when you need us most. Our strikes are no longer just about pay."

The presentation gave details about cuts the FBU think would save the government money, and detailed Section 19 of the Fire Services Act.

Rob Salter added: "Section 19, the criteria known as 'Standards of Fire Cover', is our obligation to meet certain targets.

We have to get to calls within a set time, which we won't have to do if Section 19 is removed.

It will also make it much easier to close fire stations.

I'm not saying Barry will close. But we won't know until it's too late."

After the presentation Plaid Cymru lead Chris Franks said: "I'm here tonight to pledge the support of my party, and my personal support.

The fire brigade was there when my family needed them and I feel I owe them a debt of gratitude."

After the floor was opened to questions and comments, Rob Salter encouraged people to write to MP John Smith in the House of Commons in Westminster with their concerns.