ENGINEERING SUCCESS

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: may/june 2025 :: RMTnews 24 RMT activists set out a proactive strategy to boost membership and manage new technology at the engineering grades organising conference in meeting Doncaster, with delegates backing measures to strengthen union density and protect jobs in Network Rail. Delegates agreed that building a stronger and more vibrant union is key to supporting Network Rail maintenance staff, ensuring that RMT is recruiting and retaining members more effectively. The conference agreed to launch a mapping exercise to better understand why people join and why some leave. Branches will roll out live, adaptable recruitment plans and report progress regularly to both branches and regional councils, with twice-yearly reviews at the National Maintenance Council to share successful approaches. Moving the hotly debated motion, Aidan Gibson, Wakefield and Healy Mills said: “The recent dispute has underscored the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to maintain membership density and fill representation gaps across the company. “Recruitment and retention are essential to maintaining the strength and solidarity of our trade union. By implementing these measures, we can build a stronger, more united membership base within Network Rail and continue to effectively advocate for the rights and interests of our members,” he said. Charles Fisher, South East London Operations & Engineering acknowledged that the union had faced some difficult challenges but that recruitment retention and density were top priorities. “The strength of our union comes in numbers. And I think this matter should go to the AGM, as it is the basis and foundation of how we function,” he said. Jimmy Brown, Liverpool No.5 rose to support, saying that it was one of the most important resolutions. “Without density and membership, the rest of it is all pointless. Without that strong collective bargaining power, what is the point of putting any resolutions through? Strong collective bargaining gives us better pay rises and better everything else,” he said. Delegates also took a forward-looking approach to the rise of drone technology for inspections. While acknowledging the efficiency benefits, delegates insisted that new technology must not come at the expense of jobs or safety standards. The resolution passed called for strong protections—requiring job security guarantees, upholding inspection quality, and ensuring transparent oversight as drones are introduced. A public campaign will also be launched to raise awareness of the importance of safety and skills as the industry evolves. Mark Hall, Wakefield and Healy Mills said: “In 2019, we were consulted on the introduction of drones, but it was very vague. “Recently, we were consulted again about plans to use drones for track inspections, for p-way work and overhead line inspections. “I don’t believe we can stop technology or prevent the use of drones altogether. But if we ENGINEERING SUCCESS A packed engineering grades conference debate increasing union density and defending jobs