Urgent Motion - Bus Driver Mr Mark Hehir

Keith Prince AM moved, and Alex Wilson AM seconded the following motion:

"The London Assembly notes the case of Mr Mark Hehir, a London bus driver dismissed by Metroline after intervening to protect a passenger whose necklace had been stolen and using reasonable force in self defence when confronted by the offender.

The Assembly further notes that Mr Hehir sustained serious injuries as a result of this incident, including a severe hand infection requiring intensive hospital treatment, and that an employment tribunal has since upheld Metroline’s decision to dismiss him.

The Assembly recognises the overwhelming public concern surrounding this case, with over 100,000 people signing a petition in support of Mr Hehir and significant cross party political backing calling for an apology and appropriate redress.

The Assembly calls on the Mayor of London and Transport for London to carry out a full investigation into this incident and, depending on the findings, then insist Metroline issues a public apology and reinstates Mr Hehir or provides appropriate compensation for his 
dismissal

The investigation’s findings should be shared with the Assembly.
The Assembly further calls on the Mayor to ensure that clear guidance is put in place so that transport workers who act in good faith to protect passengers are treated fairly and supported, not punished.

Finally, this Assembly wishes to express its support for the introduction of good Samaritan protections in civil law for both employers and employees."