DISMISSAL, B PAINKAL-BROWNS, CONDUCTORS – NORTHERN TRAINS

Our Ref: BR2/4/1

 

6^th September 2024

 

Dear RMT Member,

 

DISMISSAL, B PAINKAL-BROWNS, CONDUCTORS – NORTHERN TRAINS

 

I have received a resolution from the Sheffield & District Branch relating to the unfair dismissal of Sister Bindu Painkal-Browns.

 

The action taken against Bindu has understandably caused RMT Members at the Sheffield Depot to be dismayed and shocked at the severity and harshness of the punishment handed to our colleague. 

 

The Union’s National Executive Committee has considered this matter and has instructed me to write to the company and express our concerns at the actions taken against our colleague. The NEC has also instructed me to prepare a ballot matrix for industrial action, should the need for a ballot arise. 

 

I have now written to the company to advise them that the Union are deeply concerned at the overzealous abuse of the disciplinary procedures. I have asked Northern Trains to immediately reengage Bindu back into employment with the company. Failure to reemploy Bindu will mean the Union will not hesitate to act to defend Bindu, including balloting members for industrial action.

 

Should the need for a ballot arise I ask members that if your job title, address, or workplace has recently changed, then please contact the RMT Helpline to update your details you can contact the helpline by Email at info@rmt.org.uk; alternatively, you can call the RMT Freephone Helpline number on 0800 376 3706, the RMT switchboard on 0207 387 4771 and ask to speak to the Industrial Relations Department. Additionally, if you know a colleague who has moved or changed jobs inform them to contact the union on one of the above contact methods where we will be able to amend their details accordingly.

 

I trust this keeps you advised, and I will update members on any further developments

 

Yours sincerely

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary