The Train Drivers Union Votes to Continue Walkouts
SLEF banner in London. (Source: Dan Kitwood)
On Thursday, members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) accepted a pay deal to end the long-running dispute over pay.
The deal was introduced in hopes of ending all rail strike action. However, Aslef, the train driver’s union, will still proceed with their December strikes.
The members of the RMT agreed to an offer from 14 train companies, including a backdated pay rise of 5%.
The deal now means RMT members will no longer participate in an industrial action until next year.
Although the pay deal has ended the 18-month row, there are still negotiations over future pay.
Aslef members will participate in several walkouts between 2 and 8th December, impacting many train companies.
The union drivers will still refuse to work overtime from 1- 9 December.
There have been attempts to end the strikes and walkouts, but a deal is yet to be made.
The union requested the pay deal reflect the rising cost of living, but COVID-19 impacted the rail industry’s finances.
Bosses said, “Reforms needed to be agreed upon to afford pay increases and modernize the railway.”
