Great Western Coffee Shop

Article links below.
http://www.rmtbristol.org.uk/2007/12/first_great_western_rail_strik.html#more

http://www.rmtbristol.org.uk/2007/12/strike_ballot_at_train_operato.html#more

Partial quotes from both parties:

^Industrial relations for both guards and drivers have hit a serious low, but rather than try to deal sensibly with the various issues that affect their workforce the company has fanned the flames by using managers to guard and drive trains,^ RMT general secretary Bob Crow said. ^Our reps have tried hard to avoid these disputes, but when the company adopts a confrontational style of management it can hardly complain when it results in confrontation. Our members are now telling us that they are angry with the company^s appalling behaviour and I am sure that their anger will be reflected in a decisive vote for action.^

A spokesman for FGW said: ^We understand that the RMT is planning to ballot its members about the possibility of industrial action, but cannot comment further until the results of any ballot are known. We are working with the union to find a resolution to any issues they may raise.^

The Ballot closes on 10th January ...

I am sure that AG is glad he will be back by then....

Like I said on a previous thread its a good job he is having a long Christmas break as I think January is going to be tough month for FGW. Could 2008 be the year that First lose the GW franchise I wonder?

Further article (link below.)
http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=144125&command=displayContent&sourceNode=232450&contentPK=19378160&folderPk=108202&pNodeId=251466

Interesting quote :

Like I said on a previous thread its a good job he is having a long Christmas break as I think January is going to be tough month for FGW. Could 2008 be the year that First lose the GW franchise I wonder?
[/quote]

You can only live in Hope!

And I don't mean that lovely town on the Sheffield-Manchester Line.