RMT Three Bridges | News Library

27th January

Circular No IR/56/12
Dear Colleagues,
RE-INTRODUCTION OF CLASS 180 TRAINS – FIRST GREAT WESTERN
First Great Western has been successful in obtaining an additional 48 vehicles to bolster capacity at peak times; this will see the re-introduction of Class 180 Trains at FGW. A key issue for our members will be the operation of doors on the Class 180 Train, the rolling stock which has been acquired was previously leased to Northern Rail and following a successful campaign led by the RMT was modified to allow the Guard to fully carry out the opening and shutting of doors.
This modification was apparently “unauthorised” by the Train Leasing Company and therefore they are removing it prior to releasing the trains to FGW. The company has informed this union that if the modification had been authorised and usable they would in principle have no objection to the Guard taking responsibility for the opening and the shutting of the doors.
Previously on FGW there was an interim arrangement which allowed the Guard to “buzz” the Driver to permit the Driver to open the doors and then the Guard would then close the doors. Now the Class 180 Trains have lost their “unauthorised” modification the company wish to have a procedure which allows the doors to be opened by Drivers and closed by Guards.
The General Grades Committee has considered this matter and has taken the following decision:

“That we note the report on file from our Regional Organiser regarding the re-introduction of 180’s to First Great Western.
We also note the correspondence from Kevin Gayle, Operations, First Great Western which states that the door control modification made to these units whilst leased to Northern Rail have been removed at the behest of the Rolling Stock Company and would prove both financially and technically challenging to modify whilst in the lease of FGW.
It is this union’s policy that the Guard has the full responsibility of door operations on trains and this position is defended vehemently.
It is noted that a further meeting has been organised with the company on 1st February 2012.
The General Secretary is instructed to ensure that no interim agreement is made between our representatives and First Great Western until evidence is forwarded to prove that modifications are not able to be undertaken whether it is through costing, engineering problems or both.
Further the General Secretary is instructed to place back a report in front of this General Grades Committee as soon as the aforementioned meeting has concluded.
The General Secretary is to arrange a meeting at Unity House with our Guard Divisional Council Representatives, Regional Organiser, Assistant General Secretary and General Grades Committee members in attendance to discuss this issue further.
The General Secretary is instructed to merge this file with file BR2/0146 ‘Introduction of Class 180 Trains – First Great Western’ and rename the file as ‘Re-Introduction of Class 180 Trains – First Great Western’.
It is noted in our Regional Organiser’s report the subject of planned new IEP trains which are to be signed off in May 2012. On this matter, the General Secretary is instructed to seek an urgent meeting with FGW, at the highest level possible, with the Assistant General Secretary, a member of the General Grades Committee, the National President, the Regional Organiser and our On-Board Divisional Council Representatives at FGW to discuss this issue in detail. A report is to be placed back in front of this General Grades Committee once this meeting has concluded and all reports and on this matter to be placed on file HC/14/2 ‘Intercity Express Programme (IEP)’.
Regional Councils and Branches to be informed.”

In accordance with the above, a meeting will be held on Tuesday 7th February 2012 with the Assistant General Secretary, Regional Organiser, Representatives and members of the General Grades Committee in attendance, to discuss this matter further.
I will, of course, keep you fully advised on any further developments.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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27th January

Circular No: IR/055/12
Dear Colleagues,
RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2012 - BALFOUR BEATTY RAIL PLANT
Negotiations have been held between the union and the company and after rejecting a previous offer of 2.25%, the following improved offer has been tabled:-

A 3% increase to basic salaries and geographical allowances and all allowances that currently operate as a percentage of basic salary.
Members on a basic salary less than £20,000 per annum will receive a flat increase of £750.00.
All increases will be effective from 1st January 2012.

After consultation with the negotiating team, the General Grades Committee has made the following decision:-

“That we note the latest correspondence from the Lead Officer. We instruct the General Secretary to write to the company to indicate our acceptance of the offer.”

I have advised the company of our acceptance of the offer and I have requested that the increase is implemented at the earliest opportunity.
I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No. NP/010/12
Dear Colleague,
NATIONAL WOMEN’S ADVISORY COMMITTEE - VACANCIES
The term for the current members on the Union’s National Women’s Advisory Committee runs to the end of the year. Unfortunately there are still a number of vacancies and Branches are invited to submit nominations on the attached form.
It is important that the Advisory Committee has as many representatives as possible, to accurately reflect the ethnicity, number, geographical location and specific grades of the Union’s members. Please make every effort to find nominees for your areas. Vacancies will be filled on a first come, first served basis in the Regions as follows:

REGIONAL COUNCIL NUMBER OF VACANCIES

London & Anglia 4
London Transport 3
Manchester & North West 3
Midland 1
North East 2
North West & North Wales 2
Scotland 1
South East 3
South Wales & South West 2
South West 1
Wessex 2
Yorkshire & Lincs. 1

For assistance, the dates for the National Women’s Advisory Committee meetings are: 23 May, 19 September and 8 November. All meetings start at 14.00 hours (with the option of training in the morning) and are held at Thompsons Conference Suite in central London. Paid release will be requested from employers although expenses will be paid by the Union. Please direct any queries to our Equal Opportunities Officer, Jessica Webb.

Nomination Form (PDF file) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No IR/41/12
Dear Colleagues ,
USE OF NON-OPERATIONAL STAFF DURING STRIKE ACTION
Further to my previous circular on the above matter dated 8th December 2011 (IR/589/11), where I informed Branches and Regional Councils of the following successful resolution passed at the 2011 National Conference of Station and Associated Grades and appropriate General Grades Committee decision:

Resolution

This conference notes that LUL and TOCs are increasingly using non- operational staff with little or no training to cover staff on strike or at other times.
This conference also notes that the process that companies use is murky.
The conference demands an investigation into this practice with findings to be sent to the O.R.R and published.
This conference also demands an end to this practice.”

General Grades Committee Decision

“We note the resolution from our National Conference of Station and Associated Grades 2011 and the sentiments expressed within it.
We therefore instruct the General Secretary to write to all Branches asking for instances of non-operational staff working with little or no training, vice our members who are involved in a legitimate dispute.
The matter to be placed back before the General Grades Committee for further consideration when responses have been received. Responses to Unity House no later than 31st January 2012.”

By way of reminder I would be most grateful if Branches and Regional Councils could give this matter their earliest attention. Please be mindful that the General Grades Committee has requested responses by no later than 31st January 2012.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No IR/42/12
Dear Colleagues,
TRANSFER OF RESPONSIBILITY TO RAIL OPERATING CENTRES –
SIGNALLING AND ECRO STAFF – NETWORK RAIL
As previously advised, discussions are ongoing with regard to Network Rail’s plans to reduce the number of Electrical Control Locations as part of their “Operations Strategy”. Initially they proposed to reduce ECRO locations from 14 down to just 2 however this position has now changed. Branches should be made aware that their plans are not fully formed yet and below you will find the details of their current “emerging thinking” as outlined to us in writing: -

“We have to modernise the existing equipment but it would no longer be our intention to consolidate all electrical control activity to two locations
Our thinking is now to split the current role of the electrical control function into two parts; one that manages power distribution for the network and one that manages traction, isolations and switching locally
As a consequence, the traction/isolation/switching role would be undertaken in 8 – 10 of the Rail Operating Centres
This means that we would retain the capability in the Anglia, LNE, LNW, Scotland and Wessex routes and also create the capability within the Western route. We would still seek to rationalise the remaining DC locations in Sussex and Kent to the Three Bridges Rail Operating Centre
The initial workload analysis indicates that the number of future posts required would be broadly similar to today
The original demographic analysis has been reviewed for alignment with the Rail Operating Centres. The majority of current ECROs are believed to be within reasonable travelling time of the 8 – 10 Rail Operating Centres.”

Network Rail has also proposed the creation of a Joint Working Party to look at their proposals. We have met with our sister unions Unite and TSSA to agree a joint strategy on this issue and it has been decided that we will all take part in the JWP. Our involvement is on the proviso that two RMT ECRO representatives attend each meeting accompanied by a full time official.
Once there are further developments I shall be sure to keep branches and members informed.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No IR/44/12
Dear Colleague,
BANK HOLIDAY PAYMENT & ANNUAL LEAVE ARRANGEMENTS,
DIAMOND JUBILEE – TOCS & FOCS
Further to my Circular No IR/560/11 dated the 26th November 2011 with regards to the above matter, please be advised that I have now received a copy of the Diamond Jubilee Bank Holiday and Annual Leave arrangements for South West Trains and Arriva Trains Wales. The matter has again been considered by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows:

“That we note the reports on file from our Regional Organisers for Arriva Trains Wales and South West Trains on this matter. We note that Arriva Trains Wales are recognising this day as an additional holiday and are therefore compensating our members with an additional days leave. This additional days’ leave is to be extended to all members employed by At-Seat Catering which is a subsidiary of Arriva Trains Wales.
Further, we note that South West Trains are recognising this day as an additional Bank Holiday and will be compensating our members with an additional days leave. A full written breakdown on how this affects members at South West Trains under their terms and conditions has been forwarded by the company and is held on file.
Therefore, the General Secretary is to write to all representatives at Arriva Trains Wales and South West Trains furnishing them with all details of the arrangements for the above mentioned Bank Holiday in order to inform all our affected members. Regional Councils and Branches to be informed.”

In accordance with the above, I would be most grateful if you could bring this matter to the attention of all your SWT and ATW members. Please find enclosed a copy of the Diamond Jubilee Bank Holiday working arrangements for both companies. (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Bank Holiday working arrangements Diamond Jubilee South West Trains (PDF file)

Best wishes.
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No: IR/043/12
Dear Colleague,
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF ENGINEERING GRADES 2012
I am writing to advise you that the National Conference of Engineering Grades 2012 will take place in Kirkcaldy, Fife, on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th April 2012. The venue for the conference is:
The Townhouse
Kirkcaldy
Fife
Scotland
Resolutions should be sent to the Conference Secretary by the 14th February at the address given below. All items must have the Branch/Regional Council stamp on them and be signed by the Branch or Regional Council Secretary. All queries with regard to this conference should be forwarded to the conference secretary, whose details are:
Alan Cadden
9/6 Magdalene Drive
Edinburgh
EH15 3EB
Scotland
Tel: 0131 258 4665
Mobile: 07875 210 127
Email: alancadden@hotmail.co.uk
I would urge all branches to ensure they are represented at this very important conference of your union.

2012 Delegate Slip (PDF file) 2012 Resolution Slip (PDF File) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No IR/46/12
Dear Colleagues,
DISMISSALS – D. BRANDER & K. MCLEAN, TICKET EXAMINERS – FIRST SCOTRAIL
Further to my previous circular on the above matter dated 1st December 2011 (IR/568/11), the General Grades Committee has considered this matter and has taken the following decision:

“Having reviewed the file and consulted with both the Regional Organiser and our Scotrail Co-ordinator regarding the dismissal of our two members, we instruct the General Secretary to immediately commence with a ballot for strike action and action short of a strike of the First Scotrail ticket examiners employed upon the North Clyde line of route, namely Airdrie, Bathgate, Dalmuir, Glasgow Central (Argyle Line), Helensburgh Central, Motherwell and Partick.
We further note that the above is one line of work covered by one manager and one LLC. Accompanying the ballot correspondence the General Secretary is instructed to include correspondence advising the affected members of our position as well as urging them to vote YES for industrial action.
We further note that meetings have been set up to inform our members on:
Thursday 26th January 2012
Thursday 2nd February 2012
Additionally, the General Secretary is instructed to ensure that our Scottish Regional Office is provided with sufficient support material in preparation for strike action. Branches and Regional Councils to be informed.”

Ballot papers will be despatched to members’ home addresses on Wednesday 1st February 2012 and the ballot will close on Wednesday 15th February 2012. I shall, of course, keep you updated with any further developments.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No: IR/045/12
Dear Colleagues,
RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2011 - OCS EUROSTAR CONTRACT
The ballot has concluded and the result has been considered by the GGC which has taken the following decision:-

“That we note the ballot results are as follows:-

Strike Action

Total Votes Cast41
Number Voting ‘Yes’39
Number Voting ‘No’2
Spoilt Papers0

Action Short of a Strike

Total Votes Cast41
Number Voting ‘Yes’39
Number Voting ‘No’2
Spoilt Papers 1

And we congratulate our members for their near unanimous support of this union’s stance and accordingly we instruct the General Secretary to advise the members concerned of this ballot result and this General Grades Committee decision by way of a personal letter. Further we refer this matter to the Midland sub-committee for examination and report and to allow our negotiating team two weeks to seek an improved offer, utilising the services of ACAS if deemed appropriate and that this matter is to be placed back before the GGC on 7th February 2012.
We further instruct the General Secretary that as well as writing to OCS, he is to write to the Chief Executive of Eurostar advising them that this union holds Eurostar responsible for this situation in that they have not provided appropriate wage increase in the service contract with OCS as specified in our previous decision GWW, 8th December 2011. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.”
I am acting in accordance with this decision and I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members.

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No: IR/048/12
Dear Colleagues,
RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2011
INITIAL NETWORK RAIL CHANNEL TUNNEL RAIL LINK
The ballot has concluded and the result has been considered by the GGC which has taken the following decision:-

“That we note the ballot results are as follows:-

Strike Action

Total Votes Cast20
Number Voting ‘Yes’20
Number Voting ‘No’0
Spoilt Papers0

Action Short of a Strike

Total Votes Cast20
Number Voting ‘Yes’19
Number Voting ‘No’0
Spoilt Papers 1

And we congratulate our Initial members for their unanimous support of this union’s stance and accordingly we instruct the General Secretary to advise the members concerned of this ballot result and this General Grades Committee decision by way of a personal letter. Further we refer this matter to the Midland sub-committee for examination and report and to allow our negotiating team two weeks to seek an improved offer, utilising the services of ACAS if deemed appropriate and that this matter is to be placed back before the GGC on 7th February 2012.
We further instruct the General Secretary that as well as writing to Initial he is to write to the Chief Executive of Network Rail advising them that this union holds Network Rail responsible for this situation in that they have not provided appropriate wage increase in the service contract with Initial as specified in our previous decision GWW, 8th December 2011. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.”
I am acting in accordance with this decision and I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members.

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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25th January

Circular No IR/49/12
Dear Colleague,
JOB CUTS, STATION STAFF – LONDON MIDLAND
Further to my Circular No IR/197/11 dated the 26th May 2011, where I informed you that I was seeking assurances from the company that there would be no compulsory redundancies and the company would adhere to the PTR&R arrangements, as a result of London Midlands proposals for re-organisation across the station grades.
I now write to advise you that your negotiating team is making good progress in achieving our aim for a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies, adherence to PTR&R and in defence of jobs and services. Further, I have received a draft document that provides a framework which will lead to a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies.
In the wake of huge opposition to the company’s proposals to remove staff and reduce ticket office opening hours from stations across the region, London Midland has applied to the Department for Transport to take the issue to arbitration. Consultations are ongoing at company level and at the time of writing, the union is still awaiting a final decision from the DfT regarding London Midland’s proposals.
The matter has again been placed before the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows:

“That we note the position and the latest report from the Regional Organiser and accordingly we instruct the General Secretary to place this matter back before this GGC on receipt of a response from the DfT or during the March Statutory week, whichever is sooner. The Regional Organiser and relevant Branches to be advised.”

I can assure you I am giving my full attention to this very important matter and I will keep you fully advised on any further developments in due course.
Best wishes.
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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20th January

Circular No: IR/036/12
Dear Colleagues,

RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2011 – LORNE STEWART MERSEYRAIL

CURRENT ACTION SHORT OF STRIKE ACTION SUSPENDED

I write to advise you that the company has made an approach to the negotiating team for fresh talks. The matter has been re-considered by the General Grades Committee.
In the interests of good industrial relations and in order to try and resolve this dispute, the General Grades Committee has decided to suspend the on-going action short of strike action:

Therefore Lorne Stewart Merseyrail members are instructed to work normally

I will keep you all fully advised of further developments in this dispute and I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members.
Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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20th January

Circular No IR/38/12
Dear Colleagues,
USE OF AGENCY STAFF – SOUTH WEST TRAINS
Further to my previous circular on the above matter dated 10th November 2011 (IR/503/11), this matter has been subject to recent consideration by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows:

“That we note the correspondence on file relating to the outsourced cleaning contract currently held by Carlisle Cleaning & Support Services at South West Trains.
From April 2012 Churchill Cleaning Services will be replacing Carlisle and TUPE situation will exist.
Therefore we instruct the General Secretary to ensure full support is available to our members throughout this process.
Further we instruct the General Secretary to organise a recruitment programme as a precursor to demand a recognition agreement, in line with the agreement already achieved with Churchill on the Tyne & Wear Metro, involving Branches, Regional Council and the Organising Unit.
A full report to be placed back before the General Grades Committee. Branches and Regional Councils to be informed.”

I will now be acting on the instructions of this decision and I will keep you advised of any developments.
Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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20th January

Circular No. MF/7/12
Dear Colleague,
RMT & TSSA MERGER
With reference to the above, the following resolution was carried at the December 2011 Statutory Meeting of the Council of Executives following a meeting between RMT and TSSA which took place on December 2nd 2011.

“That we note that a joint meeting of RMT and TSSA Executives has taken place.
The General Secretary is instructed that our negotiating team is to continue to engage in discussion with the TSSA on the possibility of a merger between our two organisations.
This Council of Executives is of the view that the time is now appropriate to discuss some fundamental items of principle.
Accordingly, our negotiating team and General Secretary in discussions with his counterpart are developed positions obtained on:

The annual conference/AGM as the supreme governing body of the new organisation – its defined powers and composition.
The role of the Executive body of the new organisation – whether it would be a management and supervisory body or whether it will be responsible for the governance of the Union between AGMs, have complete policy-making powers, control and settle trades disputes and agreements with companies and instruct and oversee the General Secretary;
Union officers – whether they will be elected from among the membership and subject to periodic re-election or whether they are to be appointed by the General Secretary;
The new organisation’s political framework.

A report from our negotiating team to be placed before the Council of Executives.
Regional Councils and Branches to be advised.”
With reference to the above, the following resolution was carried at the Council of Executives on Thursday 19th January 2012.
“That we endorse the actions of our General Secretary on this issue. We note that informal discussions have taken place with the TSSA General Secretary and our own. We call upon the TSSA to have another Executive Committee meeting with us to discuss the aspects of the proposed merger. After this meeting we instruct the General Secretary to call a meeting of all Regional Council Presidents and Secretaries to consult on where we are at present with the merger discussions. The General Secretary to send out a circular, e-mail and text to all Branches and Regional Councils with this decision.”

Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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20th January

Circular No IR/40/12
Dear Colleagues ,

STRIKE ACTION SUSPENDED

FAILURE TO APPLY LONG STANDING SLOTTING ARRANGEMENTS,
WEST OF SCOTLAND SIGNALLING CENTRE, NETWORK RAIL

I write to advise branches that following talks through ACAS, agreement has been reached with the company in this dispute. The General Grades Committee has considered the matter and the following decision has been taken: -

“Having reviewed the file we note correspondence from the Regional Organiser regarding his discussions with ACAS.
Having also conversed with Regional Organiser and the West of Scotland Signalling Centre Representatives regarding this matter, we instruct the General Secretary to suspend the current planned Strike Action to allow meaningful dialogue to take place which may resolve the current impasse.
Further we note that a meeting is to take place between the local representatives and Network Rail to address this matter on 30th January 2012. In view of the above we instruct the General Secretary to facilitate a meeting prior to the 30th January 2012 with the lead officer, GGC and the West of Scotland Signalling Reps in attendance.
Further, the General Secretary is instructed to inform all our affected members of our decision by personal letter, email and text messaging. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.”

As stated above, General Grades Committee has suspended all strike action and members should continue to work normally. I would like to thank our members at the West of Scotland Signalling Centre for their determination and solidarity in this dispute. Branches will be kept informed of any further developments in these talks.
Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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20th January

Circular No IR/39/12
Dear Colleague,
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR ARRANGEMENTS 2011/2012 – TRAIN OPERATING COMPANIES
Further to my Circular No IR/647/11 dated the 23rd December 2011 with regards to the above matter, please be advised that I have now received a copy of the Christmas and New Year working arrangements for First Great Western. The matter has again been considered by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows:

“That we note the information on file concerning Christmas and New Year arrangements at First Great Western Trains which was received on the 23rd December 2012. The General Secretary is instructed to write to all our Representatives at First Great Western on this matter and include the payment grid enclosed on the file and advise that any mis-payments to members should be pursued through the proper machinery. Regional Councils and Branches to be informed.”

In accordance with the above, I would be most grateful if you could bring this matter to the attention of all your Representatives at First Great Western and I should be pleased if you could ensure your Representatives receive a copy of the enclosed ‘lieu day payment arrangements’.

First Great Western attachment (PDF file) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Best wishes.
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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20th January

Circular No IR/35/12
Dear Colleague,
TPE CONTRACT RAIL GOURMET – MANCHESTER PICCADILLY
As you may be aware, your union representatives have been in discussions with management over a number of issues which has arisen for our Rail Gourmet members employed on the Transpennine Express contract. The main issues are as follows:

Staff intimidation.
The introduction of thumb/fingerprint scanning device booking on/off.
The use of mystery shoppers on trains.
Lack of on-board security.

As Rail Gourmet is part of Select Service Partners (SSP) meetings have been held with SSP to discuss the issues affecting our Rail Gourmet members. I now write to inform you that Rail Gourmet has lost the Transpennine contract to a company called Skytrac, as of the 3rd March 2012.
This matter has been subject to recent consideration by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows:

“Having reviewed the file we note a progress report is required from the Lead Officer responsible for this contract. In view of the above, the General Secretary is instructed to facilitate an urgent meeting in Unity House with the Lead Officer, AGS and members of the General Grades Committee in attendance.”

In accordance with the above decision, a meeting is being arranged at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime, the Union is taking every necessary step to support all our affected members at this difficult time. As far as the Union is concerned, TUPE applies and this means that the outgoing contract and incoming contractor have both got a duty to enter into meaningful consultation with this Union and with our Representatives in accordance with the TUPE Transfer Regulations 2006.
Our Union Policy is of course to bring all agency staff in-house that is to be directly employed by the Train Operating Companies concerned. We shall, of course, be making appropriate representations accordingly, as well as ensuring that the transfer in no way adversely affects our members currently working on the Rail Gourmet contract. I trust this keeps you fully advised on the matter and I will, of course, keep you informed on any further developments.
Best wishes.
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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19th January

Circular No IR/33/12
Dear Colleagues,
RAIL INDUSTRY INTERNSHIP SCHEME – NETWORK RAIL
Network Rail will shortly be announcing the introduction of a new scheme which will offer unemployed graduates work experience in the rail industry. This is separate from the existing Graduate Scheme and is intended to attract graduates from Business Studies and Arts courses who would not normally consider working in the rail industry. Those selected would be either currently unemployed or what Network Rail refer to as “under-employed” graduates currently doing pub or restaurant work but are seeking to get a step on the career ladder.
The scheme is a joint venture with Network Rail, the TOC’s and FOC’s and will offer 3 six month placements in each part of the Rail Sector. There is no guarantee of a job at the end of the scheme but they will gain valuable industry experience and be able to apply for roles advertised subsequently. The plan is to offer 70 placements beginning in April 2012 and they will be paid at “the average for the graduate market for the period they are on the scheme”.
Whilst it is good to hear Network Rail is encouraging unemployed young people into the industry, we must be vigilant to ensure these positions are not used to undermine existing staffing. I would be grateful if Branches and Representatives could keep an eye on the situation as we must ensure that the interns are not used simply as an cheap alternative to fully employed full or part time staff.
Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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16th January

Circular No IR/24/12
Dear Colleagues,
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF SUPERVISORY, CLERICAL AND OTHER SALARIED GRADES 2012
I am pleased to circulate information regarding the above Grades Conference which takes place on the 16th and 17th March 2012 at Leith Dockers Club, Edinburgh. The Conference will start on Friday at 1300 hours and end on Saturday afternoon.
Enclosed you will find forms for the nomination of delegates, officers and Conference Executive Committee. Please ensure that nominations and any resolutions for the conference are received by the Conference Secretary no later than Friday 10th February 2012.
Accommodation arrangements should be made independently.
Should Branches and Regional Councils require additional information then the Conference Secretary Roselyne Fong can be contacted by email on roselynefong@hotmail.co.uk
I would urge branches to ensure that they are represented at this important conference.

Supervisory and Clerical Grades Conference 2012 Attachment (PDF) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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12th January

Circular No IR/10/12
Dear Colleague,
FAILURE TO APPLY LONG STANDING ARRANGEMENTS –
WEST OF SCOTLAND SIGNALLING CENTRE – NETWORK RAIL
Following the strike action which took place over the Christmas period, this dispute has considered by the General Grades Committee and the following decision has been taken: -

“That having reviewed the file and having conversed with the Lead Officer, we note that there has been no correspondence, nor movement from Network Rail to resolve this matter.
Therefore, in view of the above we instruct the General Secretary to instruct all our affected members at the West of Scotland Signalling Centre to undertake strike action as identified below:
All members are to take 24 hours of strike action by not booking on for any turn of duty commencing between the hours of 05:59 hours on Monday the 23rd of January 2012 until 05:58 hrs Tuesday 24th January 2012.
All members are to take 24 hours of strike action by not booking on for any turn of duty commencing between the hours of 05:59 hours on Friday the 27th of January 2012 until 05:58 hrs Saturday 28th January 2012.
Further, the General Secretary is instructed to inform all our affected members of our decision by personal letter, email and text messaging.
Further, the General Secretary is to also inform Network Rail that we still remain available for discussions in order of resolving this matter.
Scottish Regional Council and relevant Branches to be advised”

I would be grateful if you could pass this information on to any Network Rail Operations members in your area. The company will shortly be notified of this strike action in I will be sure to keep branches fully aware of any developments.
Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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12th January

Circular No. IR/012/12
Dear Colleague,
CHANGES TO PAYROLL PROCESSING – NETWORK RAIL (BR6/9/11)
I have received correspondence from Network Rail over planned changes to their payroll procedures. The company intend to move all remaining PSE paid employees (approx 14,560) to a new payroll “platform” in 2012.

The new system will

· Support their objective for one payroll system.
· Provide Web enabled technology
· Calculate arrears automatically
· Support Self Service Functionality
· Provide some additional cost savings
· Pay numbers will become five digit.
· Introduce new standard timesheets
· End Weekly payslips from April 2012.
· Payslips will show clearer information.
· Staff will have access to their payslip online from the Wednesday before pay day.

Network Rail advises me that they will write shortly to everyone who is affected by this change.
The company’s proposals have been considered by the General Grades Committee and I have been instructed to seek an early meeting with the company to discuss any concerns over the matter.
I shall write to you again once this meeting has taken place.
Yours Sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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10th January

Circular No: IR/06/12
Dear Colleague,
ON CALL ALLOWANCES – NETWORK RAIL MAINTENANCE
The following resolution was adopted at last year’s National Conference of Engineering Grades:

“This conference believes that the "On Call" allowance in the Infrastructure companies within Network Rail differs from IMC to IMC and from grade to grade and in some cases is as pitifully low as £6 a day.
This paltry sum is seen as a reward for severely curtailing our members’ social and family lifestyles and creating a culture and inability to actually enjoy life as members cannot relax and make the most of their time at home. Members are literally prisoners in their own homes, waiting for the phone to ring. If the IMCs and Network Rail want a 365 24/7 railway they should be prepared to pay for it.
This conference therefore requests the Council of Executives to negotiate a substantial rise in the "On Call" allowance in all the companies we have negotiating rights for.
The allowance once arrived at should then be linked to the annual percentage pay rise and increase accordingly each year.”

The resolution has been considered by the General Grades Committee and the following decision has been taken:

“That we note the resolution of our 2011 National Conference of Engineering Grades and the sentiments expressed within it.
Therefore, the General Secretary is instructed to undertake a survey of all Infrastructure Maintenance Companies (IMCs) currently operating on Network Rail Infrastructure to ascertain what levels of “On-Call” allowance they are in receipt of.
Further, once this information is collated it is to be referred back to the General Grades Committee with the view to formulating a policy addressing the standardisation of the “On-Call” allowances.
Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.”

I shall write to you again once this matter has been considered further by the General Grades Committee.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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5th January

Circular No IR/03/12
Dear Colleagues,
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF HOTEL, CATERING & ANCILLARY GRADES 2012
I have pleasure in enclosing the invitation to the 2012 National Conference of Hotel, Catering and Ancillary Grades.
I trust that, once again, every effort will be made by all to ensure a successful conference this year.

Conference Constitution (PDF) Delegate Form (PDF) Invite (PDF)

(PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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5th January

Circular No.IR/04/12
Dear Colleague,
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF SIGNALLING AND OPERATIONS GRADES 2011
I enclose for your attention the agenda for the National Conference of Signalling and Operations Grades that will take place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th February 2012 at the Burlington Hotel, Folkestone.
To ensure that every delegate has a pre-prepared name badge would delegates please forward their names to the Conference Secretary as soon as possible, if this has not already been done.
Please make every effort to ensure that your Branch is represented at this important Conference.

Agenda (PDF) Majority Report (PDF) Minority Report (PDF) Liaison Committee Report (PDF)

(PDF documents require Adobe Reader.)

Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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4th January

Circular No IR/01/12
Dear Colleagues,
REPRESENTATION - DB SCHENKER RAIL
I can report that your union has been in negotiation with DB Schenker Rail with regards to agreeing a new Procedural Agreement for Collective Bargaining. I recently received a copy of the proposed agreement from the company which seeks to re-establish Local and Company Council RMT Representatives at DBS after an absence of 6 years.
However the proposals contain clauses relating to the Avoidance of Disputes procedure which would bind this union to pendulum arbitration. Pendulum arbitration would mean that if there was a breakdown in industrial relations on any issue, the matter would be referred to a Disputes Resolution Panel and if the Panel ruled in favour of the employer then the union would not be allowed to take any industrial action.
In response to these proposals I wrote to our sister union, the TSSA, requesting a copy of their agreed Collective Bargaining Procedures with DBS, so that our negotiators and the General Grades Committee could make a comparison. I am now in receipt of a copy of the current Procedural Agreement covering grades represented by the TSSA. The General Grades Committee has considered this matter and has taken the following decision:

"That we note the content of the existing Procedure Agreement between the TSSA and DB Schenker Rail and that the document proposed to this union is different relating on to Avoidance of Disputes.
The current document proposed to this union is therefore not acceptable as it contains clauses that would commit this union to binding pendulum arbitration and would in effect be a 'no strike' agreement.
The General Secretary is instructed to write to DBS pointing out that the proposed Procedure Agreement is acceptable except for the clauses on Avoidances of Dispute. The General Secretary is to make a counter proposal on the Avoidance of Disputes clauses which would be exactly as per those in the TSSA agreement. For avoidance of doubt, the exact clauses that we are proposing are to be set out in the letter.
Branches and Regional Councils to be advised."

I will now be acting on the instructions of this decision and I will keep you advised of any developments.
Yours sincerely
Bob Crow
General Secretary
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	Three Bridges Branch


LINKS	NEWS LIBRARY January 2012 <<< Previous Month Next Month >>>	NEWS Latest News Index
	27th January Circular No IR/56/12 Dear Colleagues, RE-INTRODUCTION OF CLASS 180 TRAINS – FIRST GREAT WESTERN First Great Western has been successful in obtaining an additional 48 vehicles to bolster capacity at peak times; this will see the re-introduction of Class 180 Trains at FGW. A key issue for our members will be the operation of doors on the Class 180 Train, the rolling stock which has been acquired was previously leased to Northern Rail and following a successful campaign led by the RMT was modified to allow the Guard to fully carry out the opening and shutting of doors. This modification was apparently “unauthorised” by the Train Leasing Company and therefore they are removing it prior to releasing the trains to FGW. The company has informed this union that if the modification had been authorised and usable they would in principle have no objection to the Guard taking responsibility for the opening and the shutting of the doors. Previously on FGW there was an interim arrangement which allowed the Guard to “buzz” the Driver to permit the Driver to open the doors and then the Guard would then close the doors. Now the Class 180 Trains have lost their “unauthorised” modification the company wish to have a procedure which allows the doors to be opened by Drivers and closed by Guards. The General Grades Committee has considered this matter and has taken the following decision: “That we note the report on file from our Regional Organiser regarding the re-introduction of 180’s to First Great Western. We also note the correspondence from Kevin Gayle, Operations, First Great Western which states that the door control modification made to these units whilst leased to Northern Rail have been removed at the behest of the Rolling Stock Company and would prove both financially and technically challenging to modify whilst in the lease of FGW. It is this union’s policy that the Guard has the full responsibility of door operations on trains and this position is defended vehemently. It is noted that a further meeting has been organised with the company on 1st February 2012. The General Secretary is instructed to ensure that no interim agreement is made between our representatives and First Great Western until evidence is forwarded to prove that modifications are not able to be undertaken whether it is through costing, engineering problems or both. Further the General Secretary is instructed to place back a report in front of this General Grades Committee as soon as the aforementioned meeting has concluded. The General Secretary is to arrange a meeting at Unity House with our Guard Divisional Council Representatives, Regional Organiser, Assistant General Secretary and General Grades Committee members in attendance to discuss this issue further. The General Secretary is instructed to merge this file with file BR2/0146 ‘Introduction of Class 180 Trains – First Great Western’ and rename the file as ‘Re-Introduction of Class 180 Trains – First Great Western’. It is noted in our Regional Organiser’s report the subject of planned new IEP trains which are to be signed off in May 2012. On this matter, the General Secretary is instructed to seek an urgent meeting with FGW, at the highest level possible, with the Assistant General Secretary, a member of the General Grades Committee, the National President, the Regional Organiser and our On-Board Divisional Council Representatives at FGW to discuss this issue in detail. A report is to be placed back in front of this General Grades Committee once this meeting has concluded and all reports and on this matter to be placed on file HC/14/2 ‘Intercity Express Programme (IEP)’. Regional Councils and Branches to be informed.” In accordance with the above, a meeting will be held on Tuesday 7th February 2012 with the Assistant General Secretary, Regional Organiser, Representatives and members of the General Grades Committee in attendance, to discuss this matter further. I will, of course, keep you fully advised on any further developments. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 27th January Circular No: IR/055/12 Dear Colleagues, RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2012 - BALFOUR BEATTY RAIL PLANT Negotiations have been held between the union and the company and after rejecting a previous offer of 2.25%, the following improved offer has been tabled:- A 3% increase to basic salaries and geographical allowances and all allowances that currently operate as a percentage of basic salary. Members on a basic salary less than £20,000 per annum will receive a flat increase of £750.00. All increases will be effective from 1st January 2012. After consultation with the negotiating team, the General Grades Committee has made the following decision:- “That we note the latest correspondence from the Lead Officer. We instruct the General Secretary to write to the company to indicate our acceptance of the offer.” I have advised the company of our acceptance of the offer and I have requested that the increase is implemented at the earliest opportunity. I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No. NP/010/12 Dear Colleague, NATIONAL WOMEN’S ADVISORY COMMITTEE - VACANCIES The term for the current members on the Union’s National Women’s Advisory Committee runs to the end of the year. Unfortunately there are still a number of vacancies and Branches are invited to submit nominations on the attached form. It is important that the Advisory Committee has as many representatives as possible, to accurately reflect the ethnicity, number, geographical location and specific grades of the Union’s members. Please make every effort to find nominees for your areas. Vacancies will be filled on a first come, first served basis in the Regions as follows: REGIONAL COUNCIL NUMBER OF VACANCIES London & Anglia 4 London Transport 3 Manchester & North West 3 Midland 1 North East 2 North West & North Wales 2 Scotland 1 South East 3 South Wales & South West 2 South West 1 Wessex 2 Yorkshire & Lincs. 1 For assistance, the dates for the National Women’s Advisory Committee meetings are: 23 May, 19 September and 8 November. All meetings start at 14.00 hours (with the option of training in the morning) and are held at Thompsons Conference Suite in central London. Paid release will be requested from employers although expenses will be paid by the Union. Please direct any queries to our Equal Opportunities Officer, Jessica Webb. Nomination Form (PDF file) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No IR/41/12 Dear Colleagues , USE OF NON-OPERATIONAL STAFF DURING STRIKE ACTION Further to my previous circular on the above matter dated 8th December 2011 (IR/589/11), where I informed Branches and Regional Councils of the following successful resolution passed at the 2011 National Conference of Station and Associated Grades and appropriate General Grades Committee decision: Resolution This conference notes that LUL and TOCs are increasingly using non- operational staff with little or no training to cover staff on strike or at other times. This conference also notes that the process that companies use is murky. The conference demands an investigation into this practice with findings to be sent to the O.R.R and published. This conference also demands an end to this practice.” General Grades Committee Decision “We note the resolution from our National Conference of Station and Associated Grades 2011 and the sentiments expressed within it. We therefore instruct the General Secretary to write to all Branches asking for instances of non-operational staff working with little or no training, vice our members who are involved in a legitimate dispute. The matter to be placed back before the General Grades Committee for further consideration when responses have been received. Responses to Unity House no later than 31st January 2012.” By way of reminder I would be most grateful if Branches and Regional Councils could give this matter their earliest attention. Please be mindful that the General Grades Committee has requested responses by no later than 31st January 2012. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No IR/42/12 Dear Colleagues, TRANSFER OF RESPONSIBILITY TO RAIL OPERATING CENTRES – SIGNALLING AND ECRO STAFF – NETWORK RAIL As previously advised, discussions are ongoing with regard to Network Rail’s plans to reduce the number of Electrical Control Locations as part of their “Operations Strategy”. Initially they proposed to reduce ECRO locations from 14 down to just 2 however this position has now changed. Branches should be made aware that their plans are not fully formed yet and below you will find the details of their current “emerging thinking” as outlined to us in writing: - “We have to modernise the existing equipment but it would no longer be our intention to consolidate all electrical control activity to two locations Our thinking is now to split the current role of the electrical control function into two parts; one that manages power distribution for the network and one that manages traction, isolations and switching locally As a consequence, the traction/isolation/switching role would be undertaken in 8 – 10 of the Rail Operating Centres This means that we would retain the capability in the Anglia, LNE, LNW, Scotland and Wessex routes and also create the capability within the Western route. We would still seek to rationalise the remaining DC locations in Sussex and Kent to the Three Bridges Rail Operating Centre The initial workload analysis indicates that the number of future posts required would be broadly similar to today The original demographic analysis has been reviewed for alignment with the Rail Operating Centres. The majority of current ECROs are believed to be within reasonable travelling time of the 8 – 10 Rail Operating Centres.” Network Rail has also proposed the creation of a Joint Working Party to look at their proposals. We have met with our sister unions Unite and TSSA to agree a joint strategy on this issue and it has been decided that we will all take part in the JWP. Our involvement is on the proviso that two RMT ECRO representatives attend each meeting accompanied by a full time official. Once there are further developments I shall be sure to keep branches and members informed. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No IR/44/12 Dear Colleague, BANK HOLIDAY PAYMENT & ANNUAL LEAVE ARRANGEMENTS, DIAMOND JUBILEE – TOCS & FOCS Further to my Circular No IR/560/11 dated the 26th November 2011 with regards to the above matter, please be advised that I have now received a copy of the Diamond Jubilee Bank Holiday and Annual Leave arrangements for South West Trains and Arriva Trains Wales. The matter has again been considered by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows: “That we note the reports on file from our Regional Organisers for Arriva Trains Wales and South West Trains on this matter. We note that Arriva Trains Wales are recognising this day as an additional holiday and are therefore compensating our members with an additional days leave. This additional days’ leave is to be extended to all members employed by At-Seat Catering which is a subsidiary of Arriva Trains Wales. Further, we note that South West Trains are recognising this day as an additional Bank Holiday and will be compensating our members with an additional days leave. A full written breakdown on how this affects members at South West Trains under their terms and conditions has been forwarded by the company and is held on file. Therefore, the General Secretary is to write to all representatives at Arriva Trains Wales and South West Trains furnishing them with all details of the arrangements for the above mentioned Bank Holiday in order to inform all our affected members. Regional Councils and Branches to be informed.” In accordance with the above, I would be most grateful if you could bring this matter to the attention of all your SWT and ATW members. Please find enclosed a copy of the Diamond Jubilee Bank Holiday working arrangements for both companies. (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Bank Holiday working arrangements Diamond Jubilee South West Trains (PDF file) Best wishes. Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No: IR/043/12 Dear Colleague, NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF ENGINEERING GRADES 2012 I am writing to advise you that the National Conference of Engineering Grades 2012 will take place in Kirkcaldy, Fife, on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th April 2012. The venue for the conference is: The Townhouse Kirkcaldy Fife Scotland Resolutions should be sent to the Conference Secretary by the 14th February at the address given below. All items must have the Branch/Regional Council stamp on them and be signed by the Branch or Regional Council Secretary. All queries with regard to this conference should be forwarded to the conference secretary, whose details are: Alan Cadden 9/6 Magdalene Drive Edinburgh EH15 3EB Scotland Tel: 0131 258 4665 Mobile: 07875 210 127 Email: alancadden@hotmail.co.uk I would urge all branches to ensure they are represented at this very important conference of your union. 2012 Delegate Slip (PDF file) 2012 Resolution Slip (PDF File) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No IR/46/12 Dear Colleagues, DISMISSALS – D. BRANDER & K. MCLEAN, TICKET EXAMINERS – FIRST SCOTRAIL Further to my previous circular on the above matter dated 1st December 2011 (IR/568/11), the General Grades Committee has considered this matter and has taken the following decision: “Having reviewed the file and consulted with both the Regional Organiser and our Scotrail Co-ordinator regarding the dismissal of our two members, we instruct the General Secretary to immediately commence with a ballot for strike action and action short of a strike of the First Scotrail ticket examiners employed upon the North Clyde line of route, namely Airdrie, Bathgate, Dalmuir, Glasgow Central (Argyle Line), Helensburgh Central, Motherwell and Partick. We further note that the above is one line of work covered by one manager and one LLC. Accompanying the ballot correspondence the General Secretary is instructed to include correspondence advising the affected members of our position as well as urging them to vote YES for industrial action. We further note that meetings have been set up to inform our members on: Thursday 26th January 2012 Thursday 2nd February 2012 Additionally, the General Secretary is instructed to ensure that our Scottish Regional Office is provided with sufficient support material in preparation for strike action. Branches and Regional Councils to be informed.” Ballot papers will be despatched to members’ home addresses on Wednesday 1st February 2012 and the ballot will close on Wednesday 15th February 2012. I shall, of course, keep you updated with any further developments. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No: IR/045/12 Dear Colleagues, RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2011 - OCS EUROSTAR CONTRACT The ballot has concluded and the result has been considered by the GGC which has taken the following decision:- “That we note the ballot results are as follows:- Strike Action Total Votes Cast41 Number Voting ‘Yes’39 Number Voting ‘No’2 Spoilt Papers0 Action Short of a Strike Total Votes Cast41 Number Voting ‘Yes’39 Number Voting ‘No’2 Spoilt Papers 1 And we congratulate our members for their near unanimous support of this union’s stance and accordingly we instruct the General Secretary to advise the members concerned of this ballot result and this General Grades Committee decision by way of a personal letter. Further we refer this matter to the Midland sub-committee for examination and report and to allow our negotiating team two weeks to seek an improved offer, utilising the services of ACAS if deemed appropriate and that this matter is to be placed back before the GGC on 7th February 2012. We further instruct the General Secretary that as well as writing to OCS, he is to write to the Chief Executive of Eurostar advising them that this union holds Eurostar responsible for this situation in that they have not provided appropriate wage increase in the service contract with OCS as specified in our previous decision GWW, 8th December 2011. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.” I am acting in accordance with this decision and I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No: IR/048/12 Dear Colleagues, RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2011 INITIAL NETWORK RAIL CHANNEL TUNNEL RAIL LINK The ballot has concluded and the result has been considered by the GGC which has taken the following decision:- “That we note the ballot results are as follows:- Strike Action Total Votes Cast20 Number Voting ‘Yes’20 Number Voting ‘No’0 Spoilt Papers0 Action Short of a Strike Total Votes Cast20 Number Voting ‘Yes’19 Number Voting ‘No’0 Spoilt Papers 1 And we congratulate our Initial members for their unanimous support of this union’s stance and accordingly we instruct the General Secretary to advise the members concerned of this ballot result and this General Grades Committee decision by way of a personal letter. Further we refer this matter to the Midland sub-committee for examination and report and to allow our negotiating team two weeks to seek an improved offer, utilising the services of ACAS if deemed appropriate and that this matter is to be placed back before the GGC on 7th February 2012. We further instruct the General Secretary that as well as writing to Initial he is to write to the Chief Executive of Network Rail advising them that this union holds Network Rail responsible for this situation in that they have not provided appropriate wage increase in the service contract with Initial as specified in our previous decision GWW, 8th December 2011. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.” I am acting in accordance with this decision and I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 25th January Circular No IR/49/12 Dear Colleague, JOB CUTS, STATION STAFF – LONDON MIDLAND Further to my Circular No IR/197/11 dated the 26th May 2011, where I informed you that I was seeking assurances from the company that there would be no compulsory redundancies and the company would adhere to the PTR&R arrangements, as a result of London Midlands proposals for re-organisation across the station grades. I now write to advise you that your negotiating team is making good progress in achieving our aim for a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies, adherence to PTR&R and in defence of jobs and services. Further, I have received a draft document that provides a framework which will lead to a guarantee of no compulsory redundancies. In the wake of huge opposition to the company’s proposals to remove staff and reduce ticket office opening hours from stations across the region, London Midland has applied to the Department for Transport to take the issue to arbitration. Consultations are ongoing at company level and at the time of writing, the union is still awaiting a final decision from the DfT regarding London Midland’s proposals. The matter has again been placed before the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows: “That we note the position and the latest report from the Regional Organiser and accordingly we instruct the General Secretary to place this matter back before this GGC on receipt of a response from the DfT or during the March Statutory week, whichever is sooner. The Regional Organiser and relevant Branches to be advised.” I can assure you I am giving my full attention to this very important matter and I will keep you fully advised on any further developments in due course. Best wishes. Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 20th January Circular No: IR/036/12 Dear Colleagues, RATES OF PAY & CONDITIONS OF SERVICE 2011 – LORNE STEWART MERSEYRAIL CURRENT ACTION SHORT OF STRIKE ACTION SUSPENDED I write to advise you that the company has made an approach to the negotiating team for fresh talks. The matter has been re-considered by the General Grades Committee. In the interests of good industrial relations and in order to try and resolve this dispute, the General Grades Committee has decided to suspend the on-going action short of strike action: Therefore Lorne Stewart Merseyrail members are instructed to work normally I will keep you all fully advised of further developments in this dispute and I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of your members. Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 20th January Circular No IR/38/12 Dear Colleagues, USE OF AGENCY STAFF – SOUTH WEST TRAINS Further to my previous circular on the above matter dated 10th November 2011 (IR/503/11), this matter has been subject to recent consideration by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows: “That we note the correspondence on file relating to the outsourced cleaning contract currently held by Carlisle Cleaning & Support Services at South West Trains. From April 2012 Churchill Cleaning Services will be replacing Carlisle and TUPE situation will exist. Therefore we instruct the General Secretary to ensure full support is available to our members throughout this process. Further we instruct the General Secretary to organise a recruitment programme as a precursor to demand a recognition agreement, in line with the agreement already achieved with Churchill on the Tyne & Wear Metro, involving Branches, Regional Council and the Organising Unit. A full report to be placed back before the General Grades Committee. Branches and Regional Councils to be informed.” I will now be acting on the instructions of this decision and I will keep you advised of any developments. Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 20th January Circular No. MF/7/12 Dear Colleague, RMT & TSSA MERGER With reference to the above, the following resolution was carried at the December 2011 Statutory Meeting of the Council of Executives following a meeting between RMT and TSSA which took place on December 2nd 2011. “That we note that a joint meeting of RMT and TSSA Executives has taken place. The General Secretary is instructed that our negotiating team is to continue to engage in discussion with the TSSA on the possibility of a merger between our two organisations. This Council of Executives is of the view that the time is now appropriate to discuss some fundamental items of principle. Accordingly, our negotiating team and General Secretary in discussions with his counterpart are developed positions obtained on: The annual conference/AGM as the supreme governing body of the new organisation – its defined powers and composition. The role of the Executive body of the new organisation – whether it would be a management and supervisory body or whether it will be responsible for the governance of the Union between AGMs, have complete policy-making powers, control and settle trades disputes and agreements with companies and instruct and oversee the General Secretary; Union officers – whether they will be elected from among the membership and subject to periodic re-election or whether they are to be appointed by the General Secretary; The new organisation’s political framework. A report from our negotiating team to be placed before the Council of Executives. Regional Councils and Branches to be advised.” With reference to the above, the following resolution was carried at the Council of Executives on Thursday 19th January 2012. “That we endorse the actions of our General Secretary on this issue. We note that informal discussions have taken place with the TSSA General Secretary and our own. We call upon the TSSA to have another Executive Committee meeting with us to discuss the aspects of the proposed merger. After this meeting we instruct the General Secretary to call a meeting of all Regional Council Presidents and Secretaries to consult on where we are at present with the merger discussions. The General Secretary to send out a circular, e-mail and text to all Branches and Regional Councils with this decision.” Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 20th January Circular No IR/40/12 Dear Colleagues , STRIKE ACTION SUSPENDED FAILURE TO APPLY LONG STANDING SLOTTING ARRANGEMENTS, WEST OF SCOTLAND SIGNALLING CENTRE, NETWORK RAIL I write to advise branches that following talks through ACAS, agreement has been reached with the company in this dispute. The General Grades Committee has considered the matter and the following decision has been taken: - “Having reviewed the file we note correspondence from the Regional Organiser regarding his discussions with ACAS. Having also conversed with Regional Organiser and the West of Scotland Signalling Centre Representatives regarding this matter, we instruct the General Secretary to suspend the current planned Strike Action to allow meaningful dialogue to take place which may resolve the current impasse. Further we note that a meeting is to take place between the local representatives and Network Rail to address this matter on 30th January 2012. In view of the above we instruct the General Secretary to facilitate a meeting prior to the 30th January 2012 with the lead officer, GGC and the West of Scotland Signalling Reps in attendance. Further, the General Secretary is instructed to inform all our affected members of our decision by personal letter, email and text messaging. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.” As stated above, General Grades Committee has suspended all strike action and members should continue to work normally. I would like to thank our members at the West of Scotland Signalling Centre for their determination and solidarity in this dispute. Branches will be kept informed of any further developments in these talks. Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 20th January Circular No IR/39/12 Dear Colleague, CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR ARRANGEMENTS 2011/2012 – TRAIN OPERATING COMPANIES Further to my Circular No IR/647/11 dated the 23rd December 2011 with regards to the above matter, please be advised that I have now received a copy of the Christmas and New Year working arrangements for First Great Western. The matter has again been considered by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows: “That we note the information on file concerning Christmas and New Year arrangements at First Great Western Trains which was received on the 23rd December 2012. The General Secretary is instructed to write to all our Representatives at First Great Western on this matter and include the payment grid enclosed on the file and advise that any mis-payments to members should be pursued through the proper machinery. Regional Councils and Branches to be informed.” In accordance with the above, I would be most grateful if you could bring this matter to the attention of all your Representatives at First Great Western and I should be pleased if you could ensure your Representatives receive a copy of the enclosed ‘lieu day payment arrangements’. First Great Western attachment (PDF file) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Best wishes. Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 20th January Circular No IR/35/12 Dear Colleague, TPE CONTRACT RAIL GOURMET – MANCHESTER PICCADILLY As you may be aware, your union representatives have been in discussions with management over a number of issues which has arisen for our Rail Gourmet members employed on the Transpennine Express contract. The main issues are as follows: Staff intimidation. The introduction of thumb/fingerprint scanning device booking on/off. The use of mystery shoppers on trains. Lack of on-board security. As Rail Gourmet is part of Select Service Partners (SSP) meetings have been held with SSP to discuss the issues affecting our Rail Gourmet members. I now write to inform you that Rail Gourmet has lost the Transpennine contract to a company called Skytrac, as of the 3rd March 2012. This matter has been subject to recent consideration by the General Grades Committee and their decision is as follows: “Having reviewed the file we note a progress report is required from the Lead Officer responsible for this contract. In view of the above, the General Secretary is instructed to facilitate an urgent meeting in Unity House with the Lead Officer, AGS and members of the General Grades Committee in attendance.” In accordance with the above decision, a meeting is being arranged at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime, the Union is taking every necessary step to support all our affected members at this difficult time. As far as the Union is concerned, TUPE applies and this means that the outgoing contract and incoming contractor have both got a duty to enter into meaningful consultation with this Union and with our Representatives in accordance with the TUPE Transfer Regulations 2006. Our Union Policy is of course to bring all agency staff in-house that is to be directly employed by the Train Operating Companies concerned. We shall, of course, be making appropriate representations accordingly, as well as ensuring that the transfer in no way adversely affects our members currently working on the Rail Gourmet contract. I trust this keeps you fully advised on the matter and I will, of course, keep you informed on any further developments. Best wishes. Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 19th January Circular No IR/33/12 Dear Colleagues, RAIL INDUSTRY INTERNSHIP SCHEME – NETWORK RAIL Network Rail will shortly be announcing the introduction of a new scheme which will offer unemployed graduates work experience in the rail industry. This is separate from the existing Graduate Scheme and is intended to attract graduates from Business Studies and Arts courses who would not normally consider working in the rail industry. Those selected would be either currently unemployed or what Network Rail refer to as “under-employed” graduates currently doing pub or restaurant work but are seeking to get a step on the career ladder. The scheme is a joint venture with Network Rail, the TOC’s and FOC’s and will offer 3 six month placements in each part of the Rail Sector. There is no guarantee of a job at the end of the scheme but they will gain valuable industry experience and be able to apply for roles advertised subsequently. The plan is to offer 70 placements beginning in April 2012 and they will be paid at “the average for the graduate market for the period they are on the scheme”. Whilst it is good to hear Network Rail is encouraging unemployed young people into the industry, we must be vigilant to ensure these positions are not used to undermine existing staffing. I would be grateful if Branches and Representatives could keep an eye on the situation as we must ensure that the interns are not used simply as an cheap alternative to fully employed full or part time staff. Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 16th January Circular No IR/24/12 Dear Colleagues, NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF SUPERVISORY, CLERICAL AND OTHER SALARIED GRADES 2012 I am pleased to circulate information regarding the above Grades Conference which takes place on the 16th and 17th March 2012 at Leith Dockers Club, Edinburgh. The Conference will start on Friday at 1300 hours and end on Saturday afternoon. Enclosed you will find forms for the nomination of delegates, officers and Conference Executive Committee. Please ensure that nominations and any resolutions for the conference are received by the Conference Secretary no later than Friday 10th February 2012. Accommodation arrangements should be made independently. Should Branches and Regional Councils require additional information then the Conference Secretary Roselyne Fong can be contacted by email on roselynefong@hotmail.co.uk I would urge branches to ensure that they are represented at this important conference. Supervisory and Clerical Grades Conference 2012 Attachment (PDF) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 12th January Circular No IR/10/12 Dear Colleague, FAILURE TO APPLY LONG STANDING ARRANGEMENTS – WEST OF SCOTLAND SIGNALLING CENTRE – NETWORK RAIL Following the strike action which took place over the Christmas period, this dispute has considered by the General Grades Committee and the following decision has been taken: - “That having reviewed the file and having conversed with the Lead Officer, we note that there has been no correspondence, nor movement from Network Rail to resolve this matter. Therefore, in view of the above we instruct the General Secretary to instruct all our affected members at the West of Scotland Signalling Centre to undertake strike action as identified below: All members are to take 24 hours of strike action by not booking on for any turn of duty commencing between the hours of 05:59 hours on Monday the 23rd of January 2012 until 05:58 hrs Tuesday 24th January 2012. All members are to take 24 hours of strike action by not booking on for any turn of duty commencing between the hours of 05:59 hours on Friday the 27th of January 2012 until 05:58 hrs Saturday 28th January 2012. Further, the General Secretary is instructed to inform all our affected members of our decision by personal letter, email and text messaging. Further, the General Secretary is to also inform Network Rail that we still remain available for discussions in order of resolving this matter. Scottish Regional Council and relevant Branches to be advised” I would be grateful if you could pass this information on to any Network Rail Operations members in your area. The company will shortly be notified of this strike action in I will be sure to keep branches fully aware of any developments. Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 12th January Circular No. IR/012/12 Dear Colleague, CHANGES TO PAYROLL PROCESSING – NETWORK RAIL (BR6/9/11) I have received correspondence from Network Rail over planned changes to their payroll procedures. The company intend to move all remaining PSE paid employees (approx 14,560) to a new payroll “platform” in 2012. The new system will · Support their objective for one payroll system. · Provide Web enabled technology · Calculate arrears automatically · Support Self Service Functionality · Provide some additional cost savings · Pay numbers will become five digit. · Introduce new standard timesheets · End Weekly payslips from April 2012. · Payslips will show clearer information. · Staff will have access to their payslip online from the Wednesday before pay day. Network Rail advises me that they will write shortly to everyone who is affected by this change. The company’s proposals have been considered by the General Grades Committee and I have been instructed to seek an early meeting with the company to discuss any concerns over the matter. I shall write to you again once this meeting has taken place. Yours Sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 10th January Circular No: IR/06/12 Dear Colleague, ON CALL ALLOWANCES – NETWORK RAIL MAINTENANCE The following resolution was adopted at last year’s National Conference of Engineering Grades: “This conference believes that the "On Call" allowance in the Infrastructure companies within Network Rail differs from IMC to IMC and from grade to grade and in some cases is as pitifully low as £6 a day. This paltry sum is seen as a reward for severely curtailing our members’ social and family lifestyles and creating a culture and inability to actually enjoy life as members cannot relax and make the most of their time at home. Members are literally prisoners in their own homes, waiting for the phone to ring. If the IMCs and Network Rail want a 365 24/7 railway they should be prepared to pay for it. This conference therefore requests the Council of Executives to negotiate a substantial rise in the "On Call" allowance in all the companies we have negotiating rights for. The allowance once arrived at should then be linked to the annual percentage pay rise and increase accordingly each year.” The resolution has been considered by the General Grades Committee and the following decision has been taken: “That we note the resolution of our 2011 National Conference of Engineering Grades and the sentiments expressed within it. Therefore, the General Secretary is instructed to undertake a survey of all Infrastructure Maintenance Companies (IMCs) currently operating on Network Rail Infrastructure to ascertain what levels of “On-Call” allowance they are in receipt of. Further, once this information is collated it is to be referred back to the General Grades Committee with the view to formulating a policy addressing the standardisation of the “On-Call” allowances. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.” I shall write to you again once this matter has been considered further by the General Grades Committee. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 5th January Circular No IR/03/12 Dear Colleagues, NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF HOTEL, CATERING & ANCILLARY GRADES 2012 I have pleasure in enclosing the invitation to the 2012 National Conference of Hotel, Catering and Ancillary Grades. I trust that, once again, every effort will be made by all to ensure a successful conference this year. Conference Constitution (PDF) Delegate Form (PDF) Invite (PDF) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 5th January Circular No.IR/04/12 Dear Colleague, NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF SIGNALLING AND OPERATIONS GRADES 2011 I enclose for your attention the agenda for the National Conference of Signalling and Operations Grades that will take place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th February 2012 at the Burlington Hotel, Folkestone. To ensure that every delegate has a pre-prepared name badge would delegates please forward their names to the Conference Secretary as soon as possible, if this has not already been done. Please make every effort to ensure that your Branch is represented at this important Conference. Agenda (PDF) Majority Report (PDF) Minority Report (PDF) Liaison Committee Report (PDF) (PDF documents require Adobe Reader.) Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item) 4th January Circular No IR/01/12 Dear Colleagues, REPRESENTATION - DB SCHENKER RAIL I can report that your union has been in negotiation with DB Schenker Rail with regards to agreeing a new Procedural Agreement for Collective Bargaining. I recently received a copy of the proposed agreement from the company which seeks to re-establish Local and Company Council RMT Representatives at DBS after an absence of 6 years. However the proposals contain clauses relating to the Avoidance of Disputes procedure which would bind this union to pendulum arbitration. Pendulum arbitration would mean that if there was a breakdown in industrial relations on any issue, the matter would be referred to a Disputes Resolution Panel and if the Panel ruled in favour of the employer then the union would not be allowed to take any industrial action. In response to these proposals I wrote to our sister union, the TSSA, requesting a copy of their agreed Collective Bargaining Procedures with DBS, so that our negotiators and the General Grades Committee could make a comparison. I am now in receipt of a copy of the current Procedural Agreement covering grades represented by the TSSA. The General Grades Committee has considered this matter and has taken the following decision: "That we note the content of the existing Procedure Agreement between the TSSA and DB Schenker Rail and that the document proposed to this union is different relating on to Avoidance of Disputes. The current document proposed to this union is therefore not acceptable as it contains clauses that would commit this union to binding pendulum arbitration and would in effect be a 'no strike' agreement. The General Secretary is instructed to write to DBS pointing out that the proposed Procedure Agreement is acceptable except for the clauses on Avoidances of Dispute. The General Secretary is to make a counter proposal on the Avoidance of Disputes clauses which would be exactly as per those in the TSSA agreement. For avoidance of doubt, the exact clauses that we are proposing are to be set out in the letter. Branches and Regional Councils to be advised." I will now be acting on the instructions of this decision and I will keep you advised of any developments. Yours sincerely Bob Crow General Secretary (News Items Index page) (Latest Items Index page) (Comment on this Item)
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