METHOD OF TRAIN DESPATCH – MERSEYRAIL CLASS 777 EMUs

Our ref: HSR

Head Office Circular: NP/086/25

20^th May 2025

To: The Secretary

ALL BRANCHES

REGIONAL COUNCILS

 

Dear Colleague

 

METHOD OF TRAIN DESPATCH – MERSEYRAIL CLASS 777 EMUs 

I have received reports of overcrowding on the Merseyrail network; currently the method of work is a dispute resolution agreement, Option 10, which was agreed and safety validated as part of the dispute over the introduction of class 777 rolling stock and maintain the grade of Train Manager (Guard).

 

I have received requests from our representatives to negotiate an alternative method of despatch for overcrowded trains, as the practice of working in train on busy peak trains, during events, football games and other issues such short-formed units and unit reliability is unsafe. 

 

Given Option 10 was a trade dispute resolution agreed by our membership, your lead officer has sought authority to enter into fresh negotiations, in order to seek to remove the overcrowding.

 

At its meeting on 8^th May, your National Executive Committee noted and adopted the following report from its health and safety subcommittee:

 

We note the report from the lead officer.

 

The General Secretary is instructed to act in line with the recommendations from the lead officer, and enter into negotiations which will effectively agree two methods of train despatch, with one being option 10 and one being for overcrowding, and that, in the first instance, a meeting of RMT’s Health and Safety and Company Council Representatives be convened.

 

Relevant members and regional councils to be informed.

            

            I am acting in line with this instruction. Please bring this circular to the attention of all relevant members.

 

            Yours sincerely

            

 

 

Eddie Dempsey

General Secretary