Southern train drivers' deal a '˜shocking and historical betrayal'

A deal between train drivers' and Southern bosses over the introduction of driver-only operated services has been branded a '˜shocking betrayal' by one rail union.
Southern train SUS-160712-111231001Southern train SUS-160712-111231001
Southern train SUS-160712-111231001

Strikes by union ASLEF in December and January led to the complete shutdown of the Southern network for several days, but it suspended walkouts planned for late January to allow for talks to resume, hosted by the Trades Union Congress.

But last week the two parties announced a deal had been struck between the union and rail operator Govia Thameslink Railway, bringing the dispute to an end.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

However, the RMT union, which represents conductors who are being transferred to the role of on-board supervisors as part of the changes, has yet to come to an agreement with GTR, and it labelled the deal a ‘shocking and historical betrayal’.

Mick Whelan, general secretary of ASLEF, said: “I welcome this agreement which is a significant step forward in addressing the safety concerns of ASLEF members on Southern Rail.

“ASLEF has never been against changes to working methods. Rather we believe any changes should be negotiated through agreed procedures. I am confident this deal can provide a safer and appropriately staffed railway for passengers on Southern Rail and I will be recommending it to our members.”

ASLEF is currently balloting its members on whether or not to accept the proposed deal.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Nick Brown, GTR’s chief operating officer, added: “Our aim has always been to reach agreement with the unions on our proposals and we’re delighted to have secured a deal today with ASLEF to end their dispute.

“It’s good news for passengers, the regional economy and staff. After the misery and disruption to people’s work and family lives, we are pleased we can start to move forward and deliver a better railway for the travelling public.”

Driver-only operation is where drivers are responsible for train doors, and the RMT has raised concerns about the potential loss of a second safety critical member of staff.

Mick Cash, general secretary at the RMT, said: “This so-called agreement is a shocking and historical betrayal presided over by the TUC of not only the conductor grade and drivers, but also passengers, including disabled passengers, who have lost the guarantee of a second member of staff on their trains.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“This abysmal document lists a whole host of areas where a a train can leave without a second member of staff that will leave both the driver and passengers exposed and vulnerable and which also represents a thin end of the wedge that will lead to the destaffing of trains.”

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.