Our Ref: HSR/2/1
Head Office Circular: NP/122/19
5th July 2019
The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
ALL REGIONAL COUNCILS
Dear Colleague
Port Talbot
I am writing to update you on the tragic events that took place at Margam, Port Talbot on Wednesday 3rd July 2019.
As we are all now aware, RMT members Gareth Delbridge and Michael Lewis were tragically taken from us following an incident on the line.
I have been in contact since Wednesday with Network Rail and the railway legislators from ORR and RAIB. I have been seeking information / answers from Network Rail about what went wrong and how this could have happened.
I have ensured that both the Regional Organiser and the Relief Regional Organiser for South Wales are dedicated to being in the Port Talbot location and that they have made visits to both immediate families during what is a very difficult and painful time for the entire family, friends and work colleagues.
As well as demanding answers from Network Rail, and a suspension of all similar works until the facts are established, the union will be supporting our members and their families at this time. Our thoughts are with those involved in this incident and their loved ones. The union will issue further circulars as the facts become clear.
A further circular will be made available this afternoon over actions to take should members feel that they are in danger or have an unsafe system of work presented to them.
Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of all members.
Yours sincerely
Mick Cash
General Secretary