On June 24 over 150 GMB members at Translink went on a 24-hour strike across Northern Ireland. The workers, mostly platform staff and train conductors, took action over pay and conditions. The strike was well supported and Translink were forced to reduce the train services to one third of normal flow.
Those on the picket line at Central Station in Belfast were clear as to what the strike was over; health and safety concerns for passengers, the danger of a less trained work force and further erosion of pay in real terms. Moves to make it easier for Translink management to sack workers are also part of their grievances.
These workers fulfill important jobs and are vital in the provision of a secure service. Already the support offered by Translink is not sufficient. If a worker feels the need to take more than 2 days off after witnessing a suicide at work, for example, they are forced to take regular sick days. This compares to 2 weeks automatic leave offered to train drivers who witness the same event.
The mood on the picket line was angry and determined. The strike highlights the effects of cut backs and the drive to lower training standards and staffing levels. GMB members should be supported in the action they have taken which should be the first step in a determined campaign to defend existing terms and conditions as well as fighting to improve conditions for all Translink staff.
last October security officers at the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH) in Belfast have mounted a determined campaign against cuts. This campaign began because security officers could no longer stand by and watch the Belfast Trust systematically dismantle the security department through massive job cuts and attacks on their terms and conditions. The service has already seen over half the workforce cut. A review of the security service by the senior management will result in increased workload and responsibility, risking the health and safety of patients, staff and security officers. The Socialist spoke with one security officer on the current status of their courageous fight against cuts. Due to threats of disciplinary action, this interview was given anonymously.