RATES OF PAY AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2023 – HITACHI RAIL LTD (LNER EAST COAST)

Our Ref: BR4/0001/HR(LNER)

 

19^th January 2024

 

Dear RMT Member, 

 

RATES OF PAY AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2023 – HITACHI RAIL LTD (LNER EAST COAST)

 

Prior to the industrial action commencing from Tuesday 23^rd January, concerns have been raised regarding one day exams during the period of the strike action from Saturday 27^th January to Thursday 1^st February. 

 

This matter has been considered by the National Executive Committee and in line with the decision, I have written to Hitachi Rail, Transpennine Express, Lumo, Hull Trains, Scotrail, LNER and the Office for Rail and Road, noting that we have received reports regarding an arrangement between Hitachi and LNER not to undertake one day examinations on units for the duration of the planned industrial action. The Union is seeking urgent clarification of any agreed arrangement to reduce the existing safety regime. The consequence of this would be that units could be in passenger service up to 7 days without having undergone an examination, contrary to the existing safety regime, putting passengers, staff, and performance at greater risk.

 

I have alerted other Unions of this development and also demanded that an urgent safety inspection of all planned safety arrangements for the duration of the industrial action takes place. 

 

Hitachi is a multi-million pound company and rather than continuing to line the pockets of the bosses, it should be giving full attention to a returning to talks with RMT to reach a negotiated settlement which properly rewards you and your colleagues.

 

I urge you to continue to stand firm together and support the industrial action until this matter is resolved. I will keep you advised of all further developments.

 

STAND FIRM TOGETHER

SUPPORT THE ACTION

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary