ScotRail says we’re sorry but rail chaos will go on

SCOTRAIL has apologised to passengers for “unacceptable service” but warned disruption will persist as drivers continue to be trained.

In a statement to customers, the rail operator’s chief admitted the firm had “fallen below the standard you expect and deserve”.

The operator was ordered by the Scottish Government to submit a plan for how it will address falling performance levels last month following additional cancellations and disruption when a new timetable came into force.

ScotRail Alliance managing director Alex Hynes said: “We are very sorry to ScotRail customers for our unacceptable service ... the reality is that we’ve fallen below the standard you expect and deserve.”

Hynes explained services had been cancelled so drivers and conductors could be trained on new trains and new routes. “We’re working flat out ... so that we can return services to normal. But that will still take several weeks,” he said, adding: “That means disruption will be ongoing for the foreseeable future.”

The training has also been hampered by late delivery of trains by suppliers, including Hitachi and Wabtec, Hynes claimed.

A dispute by the RMT union about overtime and rest-day working was also blamed for disruption.

ScotRail is urging customers to check the status of intended journeys before travelling.