The National Union of Professional Firefighters (SNBP) has raised serious concerns about the “severe lack of habitable conditions” at the barracks of the Lisbon Fire Brigade (RSBL).
Accompanying their complaint, the union submitted a video depicting the daily hardships faced by these firefighters. The footage, taken at the Central Communication and Operational Resources Management of these firefighters, shows dormitories where service members stay overnight, completely flooded.
The video, recorded on November 5, captures conditions during recent heavy rains, according to the union.
The union stated, “The case of the Communication and Operational Resources Management Center (CCGMO) at RSBL is a clear example of the insufficient investment needed to ensure appropriate working conditions for the firefighters stationed here,” emphasizing that promises were made to refurbish the facilities following their relocation to Monsanto.
However, the “promised renovation efforts aimed at improving habitable conditions” have yet to materialize, leaving the firefighters in situations like the one depicted.
“The situation has persisted for over 10 years, and the current Commander of RSBL, who was previously the Deputy Commander, is aware of these issues,” the union noted.
The union stressed, “Firefighters serving at CCGMO face severe living condition issues, including dormitory flooding during rain, in addition to an urgent need for updated, expanded dormitories and adequate, functional locker rooms.”
The union further expressed concern that while the nearby Municipal Civil Protection Center has recently been renovated, the Lisbon Fire Brigade facilities remain neglected.
In protest, the union has declared a strike for November 17, to demand immediate interventions ensuring dignified working conditions for these professionals.
