FIGHTING DRIVER-ONLY OPERATION

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: may 2016 :: RMTnews 12 FIGHTING DRIVER- ONLY OPERATION Train crew conference vows support for those fighting to keep the guard on the train Train crew and shunting grades met in Liverpool in militant spirit, with delegates fired up to build the national campaign against Driver Only Operation (DOO). Billy Kimm, Liverpool No 5 opened the conference on behalf of the host branch with a call for delegates to win their fellow workers over to fighting back against DOO and not accepting it as an inevitability. Conference president Paul Howes told delegates that they faced an unprecedented attack on their grade via a “merry-go- round of franchises”. Assistant general secretary Steve Hedley said that it would be an historic conference as it would formulate a strategy against DOO to be put into action. He outlined the situation on the various train operating companies with regard to the attack on the guard’s grade. Steve argued that the guard’s role is essential and that members need to be shaken out of complacency and into action. “Our strategy will be one of industrial action combined with political activity. Bob Crow summed it up. If you fight you might lose, but if you don’t fight, you will always lose.” Steve said. Proof that conference was more than just a talking shop came in the form of an impromptu demonstration against DOO by the entire conference outside Liverpool Lime Street Station. After marching through the station they assembled on the steps outside chanting “No to DOO”, an action was covered in the local press. RMT president Sean Hoyle talked about the forthcoming draconian anti-union legislation