SIPTU calls for reduced capacity on public transport to protect workers and passengers

SIPTU representatives have today (Wednesday, 24th November) written to the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan, calling for a reduction in passenger capacity on public transport in order to protect workers and the public from an increased risk of Covid-19 infection. SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Murphy, said: “Ireland is experiencing a surge in Covid-19 infections and restrictions are being applied across various sectors of our economy. However, despite this, capacity on all modes of public transport remains at 100%, which sharpens the risk for both workers and passengers. “SIPTU representatives fully accept that public transport must continue but passenger capacity must be reduced so our members can work, and passengers can travel, in the safest possible way. While we are aware that the Government is actively considering reducing public transport service levels at weekends we believe this would be a flawed policy as it will only cut the number of vehicles and potentially lead to further overcrowding.” He added: “The reality is previous decisions on public transport service levels and vehicle capacity have been taken by the Department of Transport without any consultation with workers or their representatives. This is despite several attempts by SIPTU representatives to engage with the Minister for Transport concerning these issues over the last 20 months. “We are now calling on the Minister to engage with us immediately on the introduction of a coherent and safe policy in relation to public transport services.” SIPTU organises more than 4,500 workers employed on all forms of public transport.