RMT Demands Investigation Into Maintenance And Staffing Cuts As Buckled Tunnel Lining Comes Within Inches Of Ripping Tube Train Open

TUBE UNION RMT today demanded an independent investigation into London Underground maintenance and staffing cuts after photographic evidence emerged suggesting that the train that hit the buckled lining on the Bakerloo Line in Thursday mornings rush hour came within inches of being ripped open like a sardine can with potentially lethal consequences.

Bakerloo Line Tunnel Damage

A major incident on the Bakerloo Line last week a shut don for several hours. A defect of the tunnel wall was struck by the first trains of the morning. Once the cause was established a large section of the line was closed.

On the same day Tube Lines were on strike for equal pensions with colleagues at London Underground.

Regional Council Resolution: The Importance Of Agreements

Submitted by Piccadilly and District West branch

We note that once again management have held private talks with another union concerning our train operator members. The RMT opposes their intention to introduce temporary arrangements for the Olympics outside of trains Framework Agreements and the P.T.O.A. particularly the intention to extend the 8 hour day at weekends which sets a dangerous precedent.

Executive Report To Regional Council

From RMT London Transport Region Executive Janine Booth

INDUSTRIAL ACTION

  • LU service control – decision today
  • Cubic – ballot re pay (2.5%)/Olympics
  • Cleaners – Initial/ISS
  • Tube Lines – this week’s action – BW report
  • Thales – ballot put on today
  • Telent/Quinns – ballot decided, still being prepared
  • TfL Olympics – ballot decided, still being prepared
  • Time taken to prepare ballots – verbal report given

Tube Cleaners Balloted For Strike Action

TUBE UNION RMT confirmed today that it is to begin balloting tube cleaners working for ISS and Initial for both strike action and action short of a strike in disputes over pay, pensions and benefits.

RMT is demanding that the cleaners, who do some of the dirtiest jobs often in appalling conditions to keep the tube running, should receive in return:

  • A substantial, above inflation Pay Increase
  • A substantial Olympic Bonus, in line with the payments offered to LOROL staff
  • A Sick Pay Scheme
  • Free Travel Passes for All
  • Improvements to the Pension Scheme