11 November 2020
RMT Press Office:
Unions thank public and rail workers for overwhelming support for Stonehaven tragedy appeal fund
Following the tragic events at Stonehaven, the rail unions ASLEF and RMT set up a joint fund for the families of those who died. The fund has raised an incredible £142,200 to date. Both RMT and ASLEF are overwhelmed by the response from rail union members, branches, fellow trade unionists, and the public.
The fund will be split equally between the families of Brett McCullough, Donald Dinnie, and Christopher Stuchbury. ASLEF and RMT wish to express our gratitude to Alan Rodgers, of Thompsons Scotland, who has independently verified the accounts.
Kevin Lindsay, ASLEF's organiser in Scotland, said;
“I am humbled by this total, which is a magnificent effort by our members, our branches, and our fellow trade unionists. Whilst money will not bring back, to the families, their loved ones who died at Stonehaven, it will help them to deal with many of the practical matters and difficulties they will face. And I am determined, with my colleagues, to pursue the causes of this accident, and get the answers everyone wants, for the bereaved families, and for every other railwayman and woman.”
Mick Hogg, RMT Regional organiser, said;
“This is a true testament to the solidarity of railway workers, their families and friends. The money will help the families but we will continue to campaign to make the railway safer – including the changing of industry rules for reporting & responding to adverse weather conditions that need to be improved & strengthened – If we are to learn any lessons from this travesty.”
Mick Cash RMT General Secretary added;
"I want to thank our local Aberdeen branch officials Ann Joss and Mike Rollo, along with Jim Gray from our Scottish Regional Council and Regional Organiser Mick Hogg, who have worked tirelessly with our ASLEF colleagues to raise this extraordinary sum of money for the families of the Stonehaven victims. They have helped ensure that those who lost their lives in this tragedy will never be forgotten.”
ENDS
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