Rosters and Track Access - Valley Lines, South Wales

Head Office Circular NP/94/21
Our Ref: HSR/2/4
25th March 2021
The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
ALL REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague

ROSTERS AND TRACK ACCESS - VALLEY LINES, SOUTH WALES

Your Bridgend, Llantrisant & District Branch submitted the following resolution:

This Branch notes with concern that Transport for Wales (TfW) have unilaterally imposed a ban on red zone working on the South Wales Valley Lines. This was done without consultation with this Union. The Branch further notes that Amey Wales Infrastructure (AWI) managers have informed our members that line blockages are not being granted during the day. This is leading to our TfW and members being rostered on an almost permanent night shift basis. While our reps are taking this roster issue up with the company, the Branch finds the situation totally unacceptable.

Therefore, the Branch calls on the General Secretary to write to TfW and AWI demanding a meeting to discuss safe track access and rostering which gives a fair work life balance. Also to write to Network Rail seeking an explanation as to why line blockages are not being granted. Further to raise this matter with our Welsh Parliamentary Group.

At its meeting on 18th March 2021, your National Executive Committee carried the following resolution:

That we note the resolution on file from our Bridgend Llantrisant & District Branch and that there are several issues that concern our members employed on the infrastructure in the South Wales Valley lines. These are issues that not only concern the employer, Amey Wales Infrastructure, but also Network Rail, Transport for Wales and ultimately the Welsh Government.

Accordingly, the General Secretary is instructed to take this matter up in line with the branch resolution.

Members to be informed by text and email.

Relevant Branches, Regional Councils and Reps to be advised.

I am acting in accordance with these instructions and will keep you informed of developments.

Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of relevant members.

Yours sincerely

Mick Cash
General Secretary