Deputy Smyth believes the new pay deal is a very important move in terms of retention and recruitment.

The union claims local councils are pitting the public against the men and women of the retained services.

Deputy Tullly believes Government has refused to address issues at heart of retention and recruitment crisis in the Retained Fire Service.

All three unions recommended acceptance but obviously emotions are running high.

Talks will get underway at the Workplace Relations Commission this morning.