Rail strikes to continue even though Network Rail staff agrees to accept salary deal

The union of staff working at Network Rail, Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has announced that they have accepted a pay offer by voting overwhelmingly in favour of it. However, this pay offer acceptance doesn’t imply a cessation of rail chaos in the coming days and weeks because there are still ongoing disputes with different companies.

Through voting, this deal got 85% backing from members of the Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA). But the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union members have rejected an offer from Network Rail and thus remain in dispute with the company.

RMT union will go on strike on days that also include December 24 during the Christmas period. The TSSA members will be striking tomorrow (December 16) and December 17, 26, and 28 as they have disputes over pay, jobs, and conditions with different train operating companies.


Luke Chester, the TSSA organising director, termed the result a ‘decisive one’ with their members “roundly endorsing” this offer. Further adding that the result showcases the power of negotiation when “serious offers are put on the table”.



The improved offer is a fair pay settlement which amounts to a minimum of a 9 per cent rise this year and next. For lower salaries, the increase is 11%. This includes assurance of their terms and conditions and job security.

He said it “should have been done months ago,” but the results are pleasing.

FAQs:

1. What does Network Rail do?
   Britain’s railway infrastructure is owned, operated, and developed by it.
2. Does the UK government own Network Rail?
   It’s a public sector company.