12 May 2016
RMT:
SOUTHERN (GTR)
Our Ref: BR2/0146
12th May 2016
Dear Colleague
ROLE OF THE GUARD AND EXTENSION OF DOO – SOUTHERN (GTR)
Further to my previous correspondence with regards to the above dispute, the matter has again been subject to recent consideration by your union’s National Executive Committee and I can now advise you as follows.
The company’s correspondence dated the 9th May 2016, asking members to indicate whether you wish to remain in a Conductor role or voluntarily agree to new terms and conditions as On-Board Supervisor, includes a complete change to the policy they intend to apply on the selection process to a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
The RMT objects to any selection process to Conductor and OBS posts that does not apply the PTR&R arrangements. However, having given careful consideration to the contents of the letter dated the 9th May 2016, your union’s National Executive Committee recommends that all our Conductor and Conductor Instructor members opt for the Conductor posts.
Additionally, the Executive Committee has given further consideration to the unprecedented attacks by Southern (GTR) management on our members and the additional financial costs, including the withdrawal of passes and car parking permits and will be making a one off payment of £80 to all members who have taken part in the strike action on the 26th & 27th April and the forthcoming strike action on the 18th May 2016.
As previously advised, the RMT is seeking legal advice on this malicious and immoral act by Southern (GTR) management. The union believes it is illegal and in breach of their franchise agreement. I will, of course, update members on this very important issue once I have received a response from the union’s solicitors.
In the meantime, I am making the necessary arrangements for an urgent meeting to be held with our Regional Organisers, Guards Company Council Chairs and Secretaries for GTR, Arriva Rail North, Abellio Scotrail, Merseyrail and Virgin Trains East Coast, together with members of the union’s Executive Committee to discuss our next course of action. Further, I am organising a demonstration at the Railway Executive meeting outside the QE2 Centre in London on Wednesday 18th May 2016
I trust this keeps you fully advised on the matter.
Best wishes.
Mick Cash
General Secretary
Unity House
Tel: 020 7387 4771
Email: