TSSA backs lowering of train drivers' minimum age

Rail union TSSA has today backed a move by the Westminster government which will see the minimum age allowed for driving a train lowered, from 20, to 18 years of age.  

The announcement was made by the Department for Transport (DfT), with the aim of tackling an ongoing shortage of drivers. The change follows a public consultation last year.  

Commenting, TSSA General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust said: "This is a welcome change. For too long, the rail industry has operated under arbitrary restrictions that excluded talented young people from train driving careers.  

“Lowering the minimum age to 18 is a sensible and progressive move that aligns with efforts to modernise and diversify the railway workforce. The future of our railways depends on being able to attract new generations and this is a step in the right direction.”