VIDEO: FBU boss Matt Wrack declares firefighters have backed strike action by a landslide in Northern Ireland – and across the UK

That result is based on turnout of 68% (specifically, the number of individuals entitled to vote in Northern Ireland was 1,541, and the number of votes cast was 1,052).

Meanwhile across the whole UK the turnout was 73%, with 88% of voters backing strike action.

The FBU has stated that the ballot was fuelled by growing dissatisfaction over pay.

It says that since 2010, firefighters have suffered a 12% drop in real terms earnings – around £4,000 a year on average – and that in the same period, around one in five firefighter jobs have been cut.

The strike ballot opened on December 5, and closed on January 30.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) said: “In effort to avoid strike action, FBU gives government ten days to come forward with a decent offer.

“If they go ahead, the strikes would be the first nation-wide fire strike over pay since 2003.

"FBU members rejected a below-inflation 5% pay offer in November last year."

And a statement from Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, said: "Firefighters in Northern Ireland have spoken.

"This is an overwhelming vote for strike action by Northern Ireland firefighters against an offer which would mean further significant cuts to real terms wages for firefighters and control room staff.

"The severity of the situation has been highlighted in recent days, with reports that troops will be drafted into Northern Ireland during the dispute.

"The responsibility for this mess lies with UK government ministers and with fire service employers across the UK.

"Our members risk their health and safety, and sometimes their lives, round the clock to keep people safe and serve their communities. However, with inflation and energy bills rocketing, they are now increasingly struggling to pay the bills or to afford the basics.

"We have delayed calling strikes to allow the employers to meet us and to make a new offer. I hope they take that opportunity.

"Otherwise, in the coming weeks, we intend to announce a series of strike dates and industrial action."

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