ESSEX, ENGLAND--(Marketwire - July 5, 2012) - Exploratory talks between the conciliation service ACAS and the Fire Brigades Union have adjourned. ACAS met separately with Essex fire service managers.

The FBU is now awaiting suggestions from ACAS about any possible way forward in resolving their 3-year dispute with Essex fire authority. The talks were attended by Essex Fire Brigades Union, national fire service conciliators and fire service managers.

Adrian Clarke, FBU Regional Secretary said: "The exploratory talks have been useful but there has been no breakthrough. We'll continue to work hard to try and resolve the dispute and hope progress can be made.

"We're keen to start negotiations on the issues at the heart of this dispute and we look forward to doing so. The issues of frontline cuts and imposed changes must be addressed for there to be a resolution."