The assault was not the only worrying incident. Acts of vandalism against the tram doors and validators were also reported on Saturday night. In addition, several passengers activated the emergency handle inside one of the carriages, causing sudden stops, moments of fear and passengers getting off at a location that was not an authorised stop. The situation required the intervention of the Police Intervention Unit (UIP) at Los Olvidados stop to remove those involved and allow the tram to return to the depot.
THEY CALL FOR A REVIEW OF SAFETY MEASURES
The committee maintains that these incidents are neither isolated nor limited to the festivities, as assaults and dangerous situations also occur throughout the rest of the year. In fact, it recalls that operations staff suffered another assault approximately one month ago. It is therefore calling for a review of safety measures and an assessment of existing shortcomings in order to adopt specific solutions that protect both employees and service users.
The complaint comes ahead of the strike scheduled for next Monday, October 19, and the mediation meeting with the company scheduled for this Thursday before the Aragonese Mediation and Arbitration Service (SAMA). The committee says it will attend with a willingness to engage in dialogue, but maintains its demand for decent and safe working conditions. “Staff safety is not negotiable,” the workers’ representatives warn, calling for action before further incidents occur.
