The UK’s new high-speed rail network developer and promoter High Speed Two (HS2) has signed a framework agreement with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to maximise the economic and labour benefits of the new north-south high-speed rail line.
Under the deal, a committee will be formed that will be chaired by HS2 chief executive Simon Kirby and also include TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady and representatives from unions RMT, UNITE, ASLEF, GMB, TSSA and UCATT.
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The committee is expected to meet four times a year during the initial phase of the project and twice a year thereafter to discuss labour relations on the rail project.
TUC and many of its member unions support the case for HS2, recognising it as a crucial investment in the country’s economy that will create a workforce of 25,000 newly skilled employees, and up to 2,000 apprenticeships at the peak of construction.
In addition to discussing issues concerning the employment, development, diversity and inclusion of people working throughout the project’s supply chain, the framework agreement also provides a platform for future work package agreements to be agreed directly between the relevant contractors and unions with support from both parties.
Kirby said: "Our mission is to be a high-performing, innovative organisation that delivers value for money by applying the best in worldwide design and construction techniques.
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By GlobalData"To accomplish this mission we need to lead a safe, valued and effective workforce. This fundamental agreement underlines our responsibility as a direct employer as well as a commitment to the wider workforce that will deliver HS2 across our supply chain.
"I look forward to working with the TUC and their colleagues to provide the very best standards in areas such as safety and wellbeing, diversity and development."
A series of shared values committed under the deal include the importance of respect at work; a commitment to equalities, diversity and inclusion; a commitment to exemplary health, safety and wellbeing; and a commitment to legacy, maximising economic and social regeneration.
O’Grady said: "HS2 is a massive opportunity for workers in the construction and rail sectors. We look forward to working with HS2 and our member unions to ensure that equality, safety and respect are at the heart of the project.
"HS2 is key for creating jobs, driving economic growth and narrowing the north-south divide. It’s a much-needed investment boost in our railways.
"This agreement commits all those delivering HS2 to maximising benefits to the UK supply chain, crucial at a time when we are discussing the future of the UK steel industry."
Image: HS2 chief executive Simon Kirby and TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady at the signing of an initial framework agreement. Photo: courtesy of HS2.
