LETTERS

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: october 2020 :: RMTnews 29 Dear editor, We are living in unprecedented times. Sometimes, the world we live in seems surreal. But the one constant thing has been the dedicated work done by the RMT rep. Our telephones, as usual, are always switched on, all messages and emails answered. As transport workers, we have gone to work as normal, although our working day cannot be classed as normal. The RMT reps have ensured that members are safe at work. Meetings with managers have been conducted by telephone, email or Zoom, but they have made sure members are protected in their workplaces. Some managers are still working from home, something our members are not able to do. As this global pandemic looks likely to continue for some months yet and we are reaching Flu season, the concerns of our members will still be dealt with by reps. I think it is important these reps are acknowledged and supported to help them continue their vital work representing members in their workplaces. Regards Mary Jane Herbison Dear editor, We live and work in very difficult times, and RMT is more needed than ever to protect our members. We must encourage those not in a trade union to join us in struggle to campaign for a safe public transport system for both staff and public use and is publicly owned in the best interest of our country's economy as well as our ecology. It is therefore very pleasing that our recent branch meeting was attended by our local Reps in particular as well as our regulars. We are a mixed branch covering most sections of the rail sector, and the role of our local reps is vital in organisation and representation in the difficult period during and following the pandemic, but they will need the support and backup of our branch; Regional Council as well as our Organisers, NEC and Officers at National Level. It was made clear at the meeting that local reps and health and safety reps are the face of RMT at ground level and we are entering a crucial period where all the professional and active support is given to their respective members that they expect. To ensure this backup is forthcoming Euston No1 branch officers will play their part as we have done in the past but if recent problems experienced by the workers on Serco Caledonian sleeper, DHL, Servest, Avanti West Coast to name a few are indications of what is to come in the future will need our utmost efforts of support. RMT is well known and respected as a fighting and democratic trade union and we have a job on our hands to live up to that. Unity is strength and Euston branch will play its part, so let's go forward and do it. Kathy Mazur Euston No1 branch secretary UNPRECEDENTED TIMES EUSTON CALLING L E T T E R S