The Government says it is “disappointed” that Unite the Union have chosen to escalate their industrial action regarding the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service.

A statement continued: "The Government has explicitly and clearly reiterated that industrial action will not alter its position that the claim for a 7.5% pay rise on the basis that they are required to work night shifts is unsubstantiated and unjustified.

"Furthermore, in pursuing their unreasonable industrial action with the aim of further increasing their already high salaries, Unite have today taken taxpayer-funded equipment without permission for the sole purpose of giving extra visibility to their protest.

"The Government considers that existing GFRS pay structures are already generous and fair. With the average pay across the service at £70,061.07, the Government is confident that taxpayers will agree. A full list of GFRS pay for 2025 is attached.

"The Government’s position remains that GFRS salaries are all-inclusive and compensates for the full range of operational requirements inherent in the role, including shift work and night duties.

"Furthermore, its personnel already receive a number of allowances and premiums in addition to their basic salary and overtime arrangements, many of which are personal to holder allowances that the Government continues to honour even though the duties historically associated with them not being fulfilled.

"Nothing has changed that would justify a new claim. The Government therefore calls for the immediate de-escalation of industrial action, which will not progress matters positively for either side."