‘Massive’ disruption for Scotrail as union members back strike action

Passengers have been warned that Scotrail trains “would come to a grinding halt” after members of the RMT trade union voted “overwhelmingly” to ban working on days off.

The action, involving 3,500 staff, is expected to start in about two weeks’ time.

The union members are angry at getting paid less than drivers for working on “rest days”. Train conductors and other RMT members are paid between £112 and £140 for working their rest days, compared with £300 for drivers.

RMT Scotland organiser Mick Hogg said: “The ballot result has voted overwhelmingly for action short of a strike. We will be progressing with action banning rest day working with immediate effect, subject to the 14-day formal notification.

“The likely disruption is massive. Our railway will come to a grinding halt if overtime is banned – no question about this. If they don’t come forward with something, it’s curtains for Scotrail.” RMT members voted by 1,077 to 73 for action short of a strike. They also backed strike action by 860 to 284 votes, but this is below the required threshold.

Scotrail chief operating officer Angus Thom said: “We are disappointed by this result, and will continue to work with our people and their trade union representatives on this.

“Scotrail is investing more than £4 million in 140 new front-line roles to improve the work-life balance of our people and provide a better service to our customers.

“This investment means more people employed by Scotrail and will significantly reduce the need for rest day working.”