Train strikes called off as union RMT enters talks with Network Rail

Rail union the RMT has cancelled three days of planned strike action and is entering into “intensive negotiations” with Network Rail and the train operating companies.

Railway workers across the UK had been set to strike on Saturday – clashing with Bonfire Night festivities – as well as November 7 and 9, as part of an ongoing dispute over pay, job security and working conditions.

The pause is temporary, however, as the union has confirmed it will continue its re-ballot of members to ask them if they wish to participate in further strike action, with the result due on November 15.

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Mick Lynch, RMT’s general secretary 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 intensive 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 6 months to secure a deal, we will.”

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Striking railway works told The Big Issue in the Summer of the tough decision to go on strike over pay, which hasn’t risen in years while food and fuel keep going up, of pensions, and reforms to the railway.

The TSSA had already called off strike action, coordinated with the RMT on the same three days on November, saying that it had entered “ongoing constructive, intensive and detailed discussions” with Network Rail.

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