A DEMONSTRATION is to be held over the "victimisation" of a Southampton bus branch secretary dismissed for "reporting concerns".

Union RMT will be hosting a demonstration in the city centre for Bluestar secretary Declan Clune, who is alleged to have been dismissed by the company for "reporting concerns to Network Rail around a bridge being struck by vehicles".

The protest will take place on Monday, April 12, between 9am and 11am on High Street in Bargate.

The action will comply with all current Covid-19 rules and guidance.

The demonstration is part of a high-profile publicity campaign in support of Declan’s reinstatement by the employer, Bluestar.

RMT is currently in dispute with the company and is balloting bus driver members for strike and other forms of industrial action.

During a director’s review, the company upheld their earlier decision of dismissal for bringing the company into disrepute.

RMT claims that "no evidence has been forthcoming" to explain what the loud banging noise has been when buses have passed under the bridge in question.

Bluestar have denied that they failed to adhere to their own procedure and decided that Declan, in reporting the issue to Network Rail, could have influenced their opportunities for further business.

RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said: “Bluestar need to come to their senses and reverse the decision so that an industrial dispute is not needed. Declan was seeking to uphold high standards of safety to protect the travelling public.

"As workplace representatives selflessly come to the aid of members without a second thought it is every member's responsibility to come to theirs when attacked.

"That is why we have declared a dispute with the company, are balloting for action, and holding this protest.

“Bluestar now need to reinstate Declan.”

A spokesperson for Bluestar said: “Whilst I am aware of this issue, I am unable to comment on individual employee matters.

"However, I would like to confirm that we take the safety of our drivers and customers extremely seriously, and have fully investigated this matter.

"We have found no evidence whatsoever that the bus came into contact with the bridge.”