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Friday, 25 October, 2002, 19:15 GMT 20:15 UK
Ambulance strike looms
Ambulance
Ambulance workers could strike alongside firefighters
Talks to avert industrial action by ambulance workers in Lincolnshire over pay have broken up without agreement.

Union leaders say they are upset and disappointed with the outcome and it is inevitable that action will be taken in the pay dispute.

But Lincolnshire Ambulance Trust has described the meeting as constructive.

The failure of talks raises the prospect of the ambulance service and the fire brigade striking at the same time.

A ballot of members of Unison is due to close on Monday with workers expected to be in support of strike action.

Workers are asking for a 6% pay increase or "a grand in the hand".

Another meeting is planned between ambulance service managers and the unions in two weeks.


Let's not mess around here - let's get back round the table and talk

Richard Parker, Unison
But Richard Parker, the regional organiser for Unison, says managers need to make the next move.

"The ball's in their court. I have no idea what is going to happen.

"All I can say is we have been very disappointed with what has happened.

"Let's not mess around here. Let's get back round the table and talk.

"This was the last chance saloon today. We should have carried on talking.

"We have had enough. Our members will give their verdict on the employers on Monday and if it is a yes vote then clearly we are going to be giving them notice of industrial action."


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23 Oct 02 | England
21 Oct 02 | England
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