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Mark Hehir, a London bus driver, has attracted significant public support after being dismissed by his employer, Metroline, following an incident in which he chased and punched a man who had stolen a necklace from a female passenger. Despite his efforts to return the stolen item, Hehir was terminated because he used physical force during the confrontation. He claims that his actions were in self-defense, stating that the thief struck him first.
Since his dismissal, an online fundraiser has collected over £4,500 to support Hehir, complemented by a petition demanding his reinstatement that has garnered upwards of 7,000 signatures. Metroline maintains that the dismissal was justified, with a spokesperson confirming that an Independent Employment Tribunal found the termination fair, citing breaches of road safety regulations and company protocols aimed at protecting both staff and passengers. The company argued the force Hehir used was excessive during the June 2024 incident on the 206 bus route between Wembley and Maida Vale.
Hehir expressed regret over how his protective instincts led to his downfall, saying, “I’m not a guy who attacks people, but I will defend people in trouble, which has unfortunately proved to be my downfall.” Supporters, including fundraiser Henry Goff, emphasize Hehir’s courage, describing him as a hero and an example of the kind of person society needs more of. Goff stated, “He’s the kind of person that I think we all need to see and that we need more of.”
Political figures have also voiced their backing for Hehir. Shadow justice minister Kieran Mullan initiated the petition calling his sacking “shameful and unjust.” Mullan highlighted Hehir’s bravery saying, “Mark’s courage ensured the safety of his passenger and put a wrong right,” and expressed hope that public pressure might encourage Metroline to reconsider their decision, despite the company’s concerns that the thief was still regarded as a “customer.” Both Hehir and the man involved were arrested but Hehir was released without further police action. Following the event, Hehir was suspended and later faced allegations of “bringing the company into disrepute” and of endangering safety by abandoning the bus with its engine running while pursuing the thief. However, a detective’s note to the disciplinary hearing supported Hehir’s use of force as “proportionate and necessary.” The petition advocates for compassion towards those who act promptly to help others, asserting that “people doing the right thing… need our support not the rulebook being thrown at them.”
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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