RMT Issues Driver-Only Trains Ultimatum

A train operator has two weeks to give "cast-iron" assurances that guards will be retained or risk dispute, rail union RMT has said.

Merseyrail plans to introduce a new fleet of 52 driver-only-operated (DOO) trains in Merseyside from 2020.

Merseyrail claims that the new trains will be safer and will still have staff on board. It also said that none of today's permanent guards or guard managers would be forced to leave Merseyrail's employment.

But the RMT still fears job cuts, and has set a 26 January deadline for assurances about the role of the guards.

The RMT's general secretary Mick Cash said Merseyrail had failed to provide the union with assurances that "new trains will have a second safety-critical crewmember on board" and "the guard will be retained on all services."

A Merseyrail statement said:

"The Liverpool city region needs and deserves new trains, which will be modern, safe, faster and comfortable, with more capacity to support the economic growth of a modern city region.

"The new trains will be safer than the ones they replace – and there will still be staff on board focusing on customer duties."

It added that it was "surprised and disappointed" at the threat of dispute.

If you are in dispute with your employer, contact our solicitors today to find out how we might be able to help. Speak to us in complete confidence on 01606 834 824.

Blain Boland

Employment Dispute Solicitors