Unlike the previously scheduled tube strikes, there may be one for drivers of the Piccadilly Line. They are quoted, as saying there is a “campaign of bullying, harassment, and intimidation” with management over rows about safety issues on the line.
The line is the fourth busiest on the tube and transports over 600,00 passengers a day. With those numbers, if they are having safety issues, an accident or mishap could be catastrophic.
Drivers and staff in the RMT union will begin voting next week to decide if they should strike. The issues are centred on safety issues and management behaviour.
RMT General Secretary Mike Cash said, “The wholesale abuse of procedures and agreements by management on the Piccadilly line is rife and amounts to the development of a campaign of bullying, harassment and intimidation that the union will not allow to continue.” The quote continues: “RMT will not sit back and allow individual members to be picked off by a vindictive and aggressive management who are continuing to drag their heels over addressing fundamental safety issues which leave staff in a vulnerable and exposed position.” This is a direct quote from London24 Transport news.
London Underground operations director Pat Hansberry has said the RMT is going to unnecessary strike action without seeking to resolve issues with London Underground. The director feels the RMT is determined to create strife and urges them to talk to London Underground and try to avoid subjecting Londoners to another strike.
It remains to be seen if things will be resolved. We will wait and see what the results are after the RMT union votes next week.