Rail strikes suspended after pay deal on cards
RAIL travellers finally got some good news yesterday when union bosses suspended three one-day strikes – including today’s.
But customers were warned the eleventh-hour decision means services will still be extremely limited, making train trips to firework displays and sports fixtures very difficult.
The RMT had also planned national walkouts for Monday and Wednesday as part of their pay dispute.
But the union announced Network Rail had agreed to “unconditional” talks and that train operating companies had promised a pay offer.
RMT chief Mick Lynch said: “The threat of strike action and our strongly supported industrial campaign has made the rail employers see sense.We have always wanted to secure a negotiated settlement and that is what we will continue to push for in this next phase of talks.
“Our priority is our members, and we are working towards securing a deal on job security, a decent pay rise and good working conditions.
“Our re-ballot remains live and if we have to take strike action during the next six months to secure a deal, we will.” The result is due on November 15. And a strike on London’s Tubes and Overground is still set for Thursday.
Tim Shoveller, Network Rail’s chief negotiator, said: “It’s welcome news that the RMT has called off its strikes.
“But the late notice means that services for Saturday cannot be reinstated and will remain limited.
“Our advice remains to check before you travel and only travel by rail if necessary. We look forward to getting back round the table with trade unions.”
Meanwhile, Royal Mail said it has agreed with union leaders to enter a period of “intense negotiations” in a bid to resolve a long-running dispute over pay, jobs and conditions. Members of the CWU have staged a series of strikes and are due to walk out again around Black Friday and Cyber Monday later this month .
THE cancellation of planned rail strikes is a very welcome development.Train cancellations cause misery for travellers and damage the economy.
They are the last thing the nation needs. It appears rail bosses and unions are getting closer to a deal, which is to be encouraged.
Britain needs to move and the rail service is essential.
We hope common sense wins out and the strikes are over for good.