Bus companies must ‘get a grip’ on face coverings says Unite
Friday, 19 June 2020 15:58
Unite the union, which represents over 80,000 UK bus workers,
has called on bus operators to “get a grip” to ensure passengers
wear face coverings on buses. From last Monday (15 June), it
has been a requirement under the condition of travel that all
passengers (unless exempt) must wear a mask or face covering when
travelling on buses and all forms of public transport, to help
reduce the transmission of Covid-19. Although the measure
has been widely supported there...Request free trial
Unite the union, which represents over 80,000 UK bus workers,
has called on bus operators to “get a grip” to ensure passengers
wear face coverings on
buses.
From last Monday (15 June), it has been a requirement under the
condition of travel that all passengers (unless exempt) must wear a
mask or face covering when travelling on buses and all forms of
public transport, to help reduce the transmission of
Covid-19.
Although the measure has been widely supported there have been
concerns raised about non-compliance in some
areas.
While only the police have the power to apply on-the-spot fines for
a failure to comply with the conditions of travel, Unite believes
that bus companies should be utilising staff other than drivers to
order people who are not wearing a face covering to leave the
bus.
Unite national officer for passenger transport Bobby Morton
said: “Unite has been receiving concerns about
passengers not wearing a face
covering.
“It is not the responsibility of the bus driver to
enforce the wearing of a face covering. Given the challenges and
risks they have faced during the pandemic they already have enough
on their
plate.
“Unite has advised its members not to get involved with
passengers who are not wearing a face
covering.
“Bus operators need to get a grip on this matter.
They should be utilising other staff members to order passengers
without face coverings to leave a bus. On routes where there is
significant non-compliance the bus operator needs to ensure that
the police are
involved.
“It is vital that all passengers comply with the
regulations in order to reduce the danger of transmission and to
ensure that confidence returns to using public
transport.”
ENDS
Notes to
editors:
Government
announcement on face covering for public transport welcomed by
Unite
|
