Public Campaign Demands Reinstatement of Sacked London Bus Driver
There is growing public pressure to reinstate a London bus driver who was dismissed from his position after he chased down and confronted a thief who had stolen a passenger's necklace. The case has sparked widespread debate about the boundaries of self-defence and employee conduct in the workplace.
Employment Tribunal Upholds Dismissal Decision
An employment tribunal recently upheld the decision by Metroline to terminate the employment of Mark Hehir, a 62-year-old bus driver based in North West London. The tribunal heard that Mr Hehir lost his job after he pursued a thief who had taken a passenger's necklace, caught the individual, and returned the stolen item.
According to reports, the situation escalated when the thief attempted to punch Mr Hehir. The bus driver retaliated in self-defence, resulting in the thief being knocked unconscious. Despite being hailed as a hero by many members of the public, Metroline maintained that his actions warranted dismissal, a position supported by the tribunal's ruling.
Overwhelming Public Support Emerges
In response to the dismissal, a significant public support campaign has emerged. A GoFundMe page established to assist Mr Hehir has raised more than £4,500 in donations, demonstrating considerable community backing for the former driver.
Additionally, an online petition calling for Metroline to reinstate or compensate Mr Hehir has garnered over 7,000 signatures. The petition was launched by Shadow Tory justice minister Kieran Mullan, who argued that the dismissal sends a troubling message about societal values.
Driver and Campaign Organiser Speak Out
Mr Hehir expressed his perspective on the incident, stating to the Metro newspaper: I'm not a guy who attacks people, but I will defend people in trouble, which has unfortunately proved to be my downfall. He also revealed that he had previously volunteered for several months in Ukraine following the Russian invasion in 2022, highlighting his commitment to helping others.
Henry Goff, a 34-year-old web developer who organised the GoFundMe campaign, described Mr Hehir as a hero and emphasised the importance of supporting individuals who take a stand. Mr Goff said: He's the kind of person that I think we all need to see and that we need more of. Society in some way has got to set this right, we need more people like him, not less.
Political Figures Weigh In on the Controversy
Shadow Tory justice minister Kieran Mullan has been vocal in his criticism of the dismissal. He stated: This is not justice. Mark Hehir stepped in to protect a passenger and recover her stolen property and for doing the right thing and putting himself in harm's way, he lost his job. That is plainly wrong. Law abiding people should not be punished for standing up to thugs.
However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declined to intervene in the matter. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister commented: It's not for me to get into hiring decisions made by independent companies. I understand there's been a tribunal so I won't comment further.
Broader Implications for Workplace Policies
This case raises important questions about how transport companies and employers balance safety protocols with the instinctive actions of employees in emergency situations. The strong public reaction suggests that many view Mr Hehir's actions as a justified defence of a vulnerable passenger, rather than misconduct.
As the campaign for reinstatement continues to gain momentum, it remains to be seen whether Metroline will reconsider its position or if further legal avenues will be pursued. The outcome could set a significant precedent for similar cases involving employee conduct and public safety in the future.
