NWR GSM-R broadcasts for line safety

Our ref: HSR

Head Office Circular: NP/179/25

23^rd October 2025

To: The Secretary

All branches and Regional Councils

 

Dear Colleague

 

NETWORK RAIL – GSM-R BROADCASTS FOR LINE SAFETY

 

I write further to Head Office Circular NP/115/25 dated 22^nd July 2025 in which I explained that NWR were proposing a GSM-R trial for additional broadcast acknowledge scenarios. I referred to my operational concerns around cautioning drivers while they are on the move, particularly under green signals, and how braking capabilities should influence the timing of such cautions.

 

In connection with this your NEC agreed to contact Network Rail regarding our concerns and to write to ASLEF as regards the possibility of a joint campaign on this issue. 

 

These actions are now complete, given this at its meeting on 16^th October 2025, your NEC agreed to note and adopt the following report from its H&S subcommittee:           

 

We note the report on file from lead safety representative Bro. Knibb for which he is thanked.

 

The General Secretary is instructed to formally write to Network Rail and RSSB, stating that the RMT does not support this proposal and demanding that it be withdrawn. The General Secretary is also instructed to request a joint meeting, together with the ASLE&F, the RSSB, and Network Rail, in the event this issue is not withdrawn.

 

The General Secretary is further instructed to write to the ASLE&F General Secretary thanking him thanking him for meeting with the union and, should there be any further meetings with the company on this matter, to suggest joint meetings with our sister trade union going forward.

 

Branches and Regional Councils to be notified.

 

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

 

Yours sincerely,

 

 

 

Eddie Dempsey

General Secretary