RMT Bakerloo Branch Rallies Support for Jamaica Hurricane Relief: Solidarity in Action

The Bakerloo Line Branch has issued an urgent call for union-wide action, passing an Emergency Motion demanding immediate and substantial RMT support for relief efforts in Jamaica following the catastrophic impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa.

The recent storm—one of the most powerful on record to strike the island—has caused massive destruction. Many communities, especially those in rural and cut-off areas, have lost essential services, including power and food. Thousands of people have lost their homes and are in desperate need of shelter, water, and basic necessities.

Solidarity for Our Members, Links with Comrades
The tragedy hits close to home for the RMT, as many of our members and their families have strong links to Jamaica and are directly affected. This is evidenced by the devastating news that one Bakerloo Branch member has confirmed the loss of two relatives in the Black River area, one of the worst-hit coastal communities.

The branch powerfully asserts the RMT's duty of international solidarity. To ensure a coordinated response, the branch has tasked Comrade Mel Mullings with making essential links with Jamaican trade unions. These unions, the motion notes, will be crucial to the relief efforts and may also require our direct support and solidarity in the difficult period ahead.

An Urgent Two-Pronged Appeal
To maximise aid delivery, the Bakerloo Branch has requested a two-pronged approach from the RMT National Executive Committee (NEC), the London Transport Regional Council (LTRC), and the Black Members Advisory Committee (BMAC):

Financial Aid: Grant an urgent financial donation to the official Jamaican government-backed Hurricane Relief & Recovery Fund or a reputable aid organisation working on the ground.

Practical Donations: Launch a collective appeal to all RMT members for donations of essential, non-perishable items (non-perishable food, cleaning products, hygiene kits, first aid supplies, new clothing, and bedding).

Direct Delivery Channel and Critical Deadline
Mel Mullings, Bakerloo Line Branch Secretary (from St Elizabeth), has committed to acting as a direct, efficient channel for aid. Comrade Mullings is scheduled to travel to Jamaica in December 2025 and will personally distribute collected items to those most in need in isolated, worst-affected communities.

Crucially, there is a tight deadline for physical donations: to take advantage of a vital waiver of Import Duty and General Consumption Tax (GCT) on hurricane relief supplies, which expires on November 28, 2025, all physical donations must be collected by the RMT no later than on or around November 21, 2025.

Members are urged to support this vital effort. Please check for further updates and specific collection points from your branch or regional council immediately.

Official Jamaica Government Relief Portal/Needs List: supportjamaica.gov.jm