The rail union, RMT, has welcomed correspondence received from Arriva Rail North (Northern) which offers to come to an agreement with the union on the best method of train despatch.

Northern has said it is prepared to offer a guarantee to a second person in addition to the driver of their trains.

In the view of these developments, RMT is seeking an urgent meeting with the train operating company to come up with a proposal to meet these objectives.

Many train operating companies have recently been striking over whether the guard should stay on the train, or whether trains should be Driver Only Operated (DOO). This is, therefore, a major milestone for the Rail Union.

What did the officials say?

RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said “RMT welcomes the opportunity to engage in positive talks with Arriva Northern over the best method for train dispatch and staff safety competencies and will be seeking a meeting with the company at the earliest opportunity.

“Ultimately our aim will be to receive a guarantee that there will be a second safety critical member of staff on board their trains.”

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