STUC disabled workers conference raises concerns about Scotrail plan for driver-only trains after summer industrial action
THE STUC disabled workers committee has come out against driver-only operated trains run by Scotrail.
A motion was passed at the STUC disabled workers conference over the weekend stating that it would increase the dangers and disadvantage faced by disabled and vulnerable passengers.
The move follows proposals put forward by Scotrail for some train journeys to be operated only by drivers with no additional members of staff on board. However, the proposals have already led to a dispute between Scotrail and the RMT, and industrial action took place earlier this year before being called off after an agreement ensuring new electrified trains would retain conductors on them.
”Scottish guards showed solidarity and determination in taking industrial action against only driver trains.” Janet Cassidy, RMT union
The driver-only operation would end a guarantee that a guard, in addition to the driver, will always be on the train to assist passengers with disabilities, like getting on and off trains.
Janet Cassidy from the RMT union, who moved the proposal, said the motion had been written to oppose driver-only trains, but added: “Since then an agreement was reached and the campaign is now for safer Scottish trains.
”Scottish guards showed solidarity and determination in taking industrial action against only driver trains. Again a victory.”
The RMT union is aware that there are more than 7,000 Scotrail services operating every year without a train guard on board.
At the time, RMT general secretary Mick Cash said that there would be further detailed discussions with Scotrail “about on the issue of platform train despatch procedures”.
Conference agreed that removing guards on the trains would increase anti-social behavior and hate crime against disabled passengers.
The driver-only operation would also make the platform-train interface and train departure less safe for disabled passengers, conference agreed.
The driver-only operation would also make the platform-train interface and train departure less safe for disabled passengers, conference agreed.
Cassidy told the conference that Scotrail management had agreed that routes currently being electrified “will have a conductor in every new electrified train”.
The conference was concerned that “in the event that a disabled person becomes ill during a journey, there may be no-one available or trained to offer the necessary assistance, including first aid”.
Cassidy said: “The platform-train interface is where the majority of accidents and incidents can occur.
“The needs of the disabled, vulnerable and elderly are paramount.
“The needs of the disabled, vulnerable and elderly are paramount.” Janet Cassidy, RMT Union
“The RMT recognises the important role that the guards play in providing excellent customer service along with providing protection [for the people on board the trains].
“It reiterates our belief that no train should be without a safety-critical trained member of staff, other than the driver.”
RMT union is aware that there are more than 7,000 Scotrail services operating every year without a train guard on board.
Delegates attending agreed that “it is an outrage that disabled people are being put at risk simply to top up the coffers of already very profitable rail companies”.
Read more – Disability trade unions worried about workers' human rights in event of Brexit
Picture courtesy of EDDIE
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