Scottish Train Drivers Threaten Boycott of CAF Over Israel Links

• The Aslef train drivers' union has warned the Scottish government that its members will refuse to operate trains manufactured by the Basque company CAF.
• The union demands that CAF be excluded from the ScotRail tender for a new commuter fleet, citing the company's involvement in Israeli infrastructure projects.
• The move is backed by the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC), representing over 500,000 workers, along with the Scottish Greens and the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association.

The ScotRail Tender

• In early September, the public operator ScotRail identified five finalists for a fleet renewal contract: CAF, Alstom, Hitachi, Siemens Mobility, and Stadler.
• The contract involves 69 electric trains, with an option for 37 more, expected to enter service by 2030.

Reasons for Opposition

• Aslef objects to CAF due to the company's role in rail projects in the occupied Palestinian territories, noting that CAF appears in the UN database of companies involved in Israeli settlements.
• Union leaders argue that awarding the contract to CAF would directly contradict the Scottish Parliament’s position on boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) against Israel.
• Aslef representative Kevin Lindsay stated that the union is committed to BDS and urged the government to act in line with parliamentary policy by removing CAF from the shortlist.

Broader Implications

• Dave Moxham of the STUC has questioned the use of public funds for a company accused of facilitating the expansion of illegal settlements.
• Gillian Mackay of the Scottish Greens emphasized that any company flagged by the UN for profiting from the oppression of Palestinians should not be eligible for Scottish public contracts.
• The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between CAF’s participation in the Jerusalem Light Rail project and international calls for corporate divestment from Israel.