Silverlinky
Member
- Joined
- 3 Feb 2012
- Messages
- 689
There is plenty more which could be done with regards to modernisation and reform. Anything from Sundays in the working week to route learning norms. At my TOC drivers accepted a payment to be given tablets to use, but don't use them as no agreement was reached on what they would be used for! Drivers still sign for and collect paper notices in book form every week, still fill in forms to book leave, still book on with a TCS, get given a day off to attend a meeting about not attending work due to sickness. DOO/DCO is still on the wish list of many tocs. Cross cover between depots, allowing depot staff to prepare units for service.I'm not really sure how drivers can be much more productive. Modernisation and reform is a total misnomer. When I drive a busy Plymouth to London train, my "fee" is say 150 quid. On that train is 20k worth of revenue. Yes, modernisation and reform is needed, but not from the driving (or other staff) grades.
There is a massive perception that if you book a weekend break to xyz that you may end up being caught out. On this occasion it is workers being targeted, but next time it may be a bank holiday or weekend. It's all about perception. As long as it is perceived there is a chance strikes may disrupt your plans, people are less likely to make those plans in the first place.
Of course some TOC's may have all or some of the above and these are just examples specific to the depot I work at, others will have their own examples i'm sure.