Eighth Report - Minimum service levels for rail

At present, the lack of detail from the Department about what a minimum service level specification might look like is preventing stakeholders from being able to assess how it will affect them or those they represent. Once the Department has determined which model of minimum service level it plans to implement through regulations, it must consult on it. The Department should set out an implementation plan and consult with a wide group of stakeholders including unions, passengers and operators. The Department should also consider ways in which a set minimum service level for rail could be piloted.

Looking to the future, the following criteria should be used by the Department to assess the success of a minimum service level for rail (Paragraph 74): 30 Minimum service levels for rail j) Industrial disputes have neither been prolonged nor increased. Novel industrial action has not proliferated; k) Passenger satisfaction on strike days is greater than at present. Passengers have access to clearly communicated information in relation to service operation, and greater certainty, further in advance than at present, about travel on strike days. l) Long term, there is more effective cooperation and better working relationships between rail unions, the industry and government. (Paragraph 74) Minimum service levels for rail 31