Call for New Law Against Assaults on Frontline Workers by NBRU: Enhancing Safety in Transport and Healthcare
The National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) has called for a new law to protect frontline workers from verbal and physical assaults. The NBRU wants this law to cover gardaí, nurses, doctors, and transport workers.
The proposed law would classify any attack on a frontline worker as a serious offense, punishable by a minimum sentence of 12 months in circuit court. The union also requested funding for a dedicated garda public transport unit under the Department of Justice.
Additionally, the NBRU aims to end the auctioning off of publicly-owned bus services. The union believes a portion of the Apple tax revenue should be used to develop a rail link to Dublin Airport. They also called for better public transport access for people with disabilities and the reinstatement of the Navan rail line.
What initiatives is the NBRU proposing to improve safety for frontline workers in Ireland?
Interview with Dermot O’Leary, General Secretary of the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU)
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dermot. The recent call for a new law to protect frontline workers is a significant step. Can you elaborate on the rationale behind this initiative?
Dermot O’Leary: Thank you for having me. Our key objective is to ensure the safety and dignity of those who serve our communities daily—gardaí, nurses, doctors, and transport workers. The rise in verbal and physical assaults against these professionals is alarming. We believe that by classifying any attack on a frontline worker as a serious offense, we send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. A minimum sentence of 12 months in circuit court reflects how seriously we view these assaults.
Interviewer: Many people may wonder how this law would be enforced. What measures are you proposing to ensure its effectiveness?
Dermot O’Leary: Enforcement relies on a proactive response from our justice system. We also propose the establishment of a dedicated Garda public transport unit under the Department of Justice. This unit would focus specifically on protecting transport workers and addressing incidents occurring in public transit areas, thereby ensuring a swift and effective response to any attacks.
Interviewer: Beyond safety, you’ve expressed concerns regarding the auctioning off of publicly-owned bus services. Could you explain why this is an issue for the NBRU?
Dermot O’Leary: Auctioning off publicly-owned bus services creates an environment where profit takes priority over public need. This model can lead to reduced service levels and accessibility for the very communities we serve. We believe public transport should be run for the benefit of the public, not as a profit-making venture. Ensuring consistent and reliable services must be our priority.
Interviewer: You also mentioned the use of Apple tax revenue for developing a rail link to Dublin Airport. How crucial is this project for public transport in Ireland?
Dermot O’Leary: It is absolutely vital. A dedicated rail link to Dublin Airport would greatly enhance connectivity and ease the burden on our transport system. It allows us to align more closely with international standards of public transport, ultimately benefiting both passengers and the economy. Using a portion of Apple tax revenue for this development would be a judicious allocation of resources, directly investing into our infrastructure.
Interviewer: Addressing accessibility, you highlighted the need for better public transport access for individuals with disabilities. What specific changes are you advocating for?
Dermot O’Leary: Access is a right, not a privilege. We advocate for improved facilities, including accessible buses and trains, as well as better information systems for those with disabilities. It’s essential to ensure that all members of our communities can navigate the public transport system without barriers. Collaboration with disability advocacy groups will also ensure that we meet their specific needs effectively.
Interviewer: Lastly, you mentioned the reinstatement of the Navan rail line. What are the anticipated benefits of this project for commuters?
Dermot O’Leary: Reinstating the Navan rail line would provide a crucial link for commuters, reducing travel times significantly and offering an alternative to road transport. This not only helps ease congestion but also contributes to environmental sustainability by encouraging people to use public transport. The broader goal is to create a cohesive, efficient public transport network that serves our population’s needs effectively.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dermot, for sharing such insightful perspectives with us today.
Dermot O’Leary: Thank you for having me. It’s important that we continue to address these issues as they impact everyone in our society.
NBRU General Secretary Dermot O’Leary stated that many challenges faced by their members are shared by citizens nationwide. He emphasized that voters will focus on issues that affect them, their families, and their communities.