A letter to Bakerloo train operators

Below is the text from a letter from Bakerloo Branch Secretary, Brian Munro, to train operators on the Bakerloo Line. This was distributed today.

THANKS TO YOU

To Bakerloo train operators

Comrades,

On behalf of Eamonn Lynch and the Bakerloo Branch of the RMT I would like to express my sincere gratitude to those RMT members who voted for industrial action and who took part in our two days of solid strike action for our workmates Eamonn Lynch and Arwyn Thomas. To those ASLEF members who respected our picket lines and showed continual support and solidarity with the RMT’s campaign I would like to say that this union is proud to have you as our friends and comrades.

There can be no doubt that the disgraceful sackings of Eamonn Lynch and Arwyn Thomas was a result of a concerted anti trade union campaign by Bakerloo and LU bosses. The judgment of a court of law was that London Underground lied, colluded and covered up in order sack our workmates. As has been proven this is illegal.

The union has said we will not tolerate attacks on our representatives and members. We will not tolerate injustice. The response to these injustices from you at the workplace, in the Branch, and at the top of the union has been inspiring. This campaign in many ways defines why workers come together in a fighting democratic trade union; it is only through solidarity can we achieve anything. Our union is the instrument in which we come together and organise to defend and improve our working conditions.

Eamonn Lynch has been reinstated on the stations on full train operators salary. Talks will take place with a view to get Arwyn Thomas back driving prior to another damaging tribunal for London Underground – if Arwyn is not reinstated - the union still has a live mandate for strikes if this is necessary.

It is also interesting that the 3rd part of the settlement was that there will be an independent review of industrial relations on the tube. We all know that over the past few years LU have become more petty and vindictive – this has to stop, and perhaps this inquiry may be constructive.

If it ever comes to your turn to need protection I hope that you have the kind of support shown to our two workmates Eamonn and Arwyn and a union willing to fight on your behalf.

Again, Eamonn thanks you for your rock solid support. The RMT salutes your solidarity. The RMT’s campaign has been totally vindicated and our workmate has been reinstated. This is because of you!

Brian Munro

AN INJURY TO ONE IS AN INJURY TO ALL