A TRADE union has said that it will launch a mass campaign after ScotRail announced it will cut opening hours at a number of ticket offices in Scotland.
The decision was announced on Thursday after the rail service said more travellers have been buying tickets online.
Now, rail union RMT says in an effort to protect ticket offices in Scotland, it will be holding a "vigorous" campaign.
RMT went on to say that the decision from ScotRail will see many ticket offices closed for large parts of the day – which they believe is "wholly unacceptable."
The union added that it believes the cuts will seriously impact passenger safety, accessibility, and security.
However, ScotRail has said that ticket offices targeted by reduced hours, will see staff carry out other customer-supporting roles within their existing job description, such as ticket barrier duties and revenue protection.
ScotRail said customers will benefit from increased staff visibility, helping with ticket selling/inspection and tackling anti-social behaviour, as well as “increased support” from platform help points, with advice available on buying tickets.
Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, said: “The independent passenger watchdog Transport Focus carried out an extensive consultation on these proposals, which received feedback from thousands of people across Scotland. We have listened to our customers and updated our proposals based on that feedback.
“These changes will provide a service that is better suited for today and the ticket-buying habits of our customers, as well as create an environment that improves safety and customer support.”
The proposals to cut-down ticket office opening hours were first introduced in early 2022 by former operator Abellio, which RMT claim faced overwhelming public opposition.
When ScotRail came under public ownership in April 2022, RMT said it pressed the Scottish Government to rule out any reduction in ticket office hours.
Mick Lynch (above), RMT general secretary, said: “This decision by ScotRail and the Scottish Government is a real setback for passengers who depend on staffed ticket offices for safe, accessible, and reliable rail services.
“The proposed cuts ignore the needs of the travelling public and put essential services at risk. We call on the Scottish Government to reverse this course and maintain the services that passengers deserve.
"RMT will not accept any closures of ticket offices by stealth and the vital service will be vigorously defended by the union in a mass campaign if necessary."
