DO you consider a firefighter should receive the same pay as a police officer? That is the question asked by Colin Wheeler (Letters, March 5).
The simple answer must be "No".
All due respect to firefighters. Like the police they need courage and skill but there are important differences.
Firefighters do their job with the support, admiration and - when necessary - co-operation of all but the criminally insane.
The police have to contend with the hostility of sane criminals (often armed) and with the obstruction or indifference of many who, while benefitting from life in a civilised society, will not support those who maintain it.
There are lots of men and women who would welcome the chance to work as a firefighter for the present pay. Not so the police.
John Logan
Foredrift Close
Southcrest
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