LONDON — Great Britain’s train drivers union, ASLEF, is going to court in an effort to win compensation for a driver who was assaulted by a passenger, BBC News reports.
The unusual move is part of a campaign by the union to crack down on attacks on rail staff in Scotland.
Aslef will bring a civil case on behalf of George Jarvis, a driver on the Glasgow to Dunblane line.
He was off work for several weeks following the attack last year.
The legal action will be against Iain Cameron, who was fined £300 last month at Stirling Sheriff Court after admitting the assault.
But Aslef condemned the fine as “paltry” and instructed its solicitors to begin civil proceedings against Cameron for compensation for Mr Jarvis.
Aslef said assaults on rail workers increased during the festive period as revellers returned from late night parties.
“Attacks on rail staff are unacceptable under any circumstances,” Aslef general secretary Mick Rix declared.
‘Settled’ principle
“They are public servants doing a difficult job under stressful conditions and it is time the violence was stamped out.”
Angus Logan, of law firm Thompson’s, which is representing the union, said: “Workers have the right to carry out their jobs in safety.
“The principle is settled in law.
“But I am quite sure that one of the benefits or most positive effects of this unfortunate incident will be the need for driver and employee safety will be heightened and given greater emphasis – both in the rail industry and employment generally.”