The Panhellenic Union of Traction Personnel has strongly condemned what it describes as a “climate of intimidation” created by the management of Hellenic Train, stating that four trade unionists have already been subjected to disciplinary proceedings. In a scathing statement, the union accuses the company of failing to learn any lessons from the Tempe train disaster, warning that Hellenic Train is once again attempting to slash staff numbers. According to the union, the company has gone as far as to formally propose to the Ministry of Transport that the second driver be removed from the driving cabin – despite the fact that the ETCS signalling and control system is not operational anywhere across the network.

A dangerous proposal

The union did not mince its words, calling the proposal “criminal” and warning that it will face fierce opposition not only from train drivers but also from Greek society as a whole.

“This is a criminal proposal from Hellenic Train’s management,” the statement reads, “which will be opposed not only by drivers but by every corner of Greek society.”

Disciplinary action against union members

The union further alleges that four unionists have been brought before disciplinary panels “either without justification or for minor technicalities that some are now trying to portray as serious offences.”

It adds that the union has taken the matter – along with broader concerns about traffic safety – to the national mediation and arbitration body (OMED). However, Hellenic Train has reportedly refused to take part in discussions, blatantly disregarding practices followed by its parent company Trenitalia and the Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Group.

Safety undermined in the wake of Tempe train disaster

The union reiterated its position in a full statement, confirming media reports about the increasing pressure and intimidation facing drivers, which they claim is being “systematically cultivated” by the company’s management.

They express particular alarm over the company’s focus on cutting corners instead of improving safety, especially in light of the Tempe tragedy, which claimed numerous lives and shocked the nation.

“Instead of taking steps to strengthen traffic safety,” the statement says, “Hellenic Train has officially proposed to the Ministry of Transport the removal of the second driver from the cabin (!!!!) – at a time when the ETCS system is completely non-operational.”

“This is a criminally negligent proposal that will face resistance not only from train drivers but from Greek society as a whole,” the statement concludes.

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