Major Christmas rail strikes breakthrough as union accepts deal to end long-running dispute
RAIL union members have backed down and finally put an end to their long series strikes and voted to accept a pay deal just in time for the festive season.
Members of the RMT union agreed to an offer from train companies which included a backdated pay rise of 5% for 2022-23 and job security guarantees.
This means they will no longer be involved in industrial action until at least the spring of next year.
RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch said: “Our members have spoken in huge numbers to accept this offer and I want to congratulate them on their steadfastness in this long industrial campaign.
“We will be negotiating further with the train operators over reforms they want to see. And we will never shy away from vigorously defending our members terms and conditions, now or in the future.
“This campaign shows that sustained strike action and unity gets results and our members should be proud of the role they have played in securing this deal.”
Transport Secretary Mark Harper welcomed the news, saying: “This is welcome news for passengers and a significant step towards resolving industrial disputes on the railway, giving workers a pay rise before Christmas and a pathway to delivering long overdue reforms.
“It remains the case that the train drivers’ union ASLEF continue to block their members from having a say on the offer that would take train drivers’ median salaries from £60,000 to £65,000 for a 35-hour, 4-day week – ASLEF should follow the RMT’s lead and give their members a say.”