Members of Aslef, a train drivers’ union, are set to initiate a new strike on September 1, escalating the ongoing pay dispute.
In tandem with the strike, a ban on overtime is planned for September 2.
This coincides with another strike by the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT).
The strike action by Aslef is anticipated to result in widespread service cancellations, and the overtime ban is likely to disrupt the rail network significantly.
Companies Affected and Union’s Perspective
The strike and overtime ban will impact a range of train companies across England, including Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, c2c, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Great Western Railway, Island Line, LNER, Northern Trains, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway, TransPennine Express, and West Midlands Trains.
Aslef, representing the train drivers, asserts that the privatised train-operating companies lack adequate driver staffing to deliver a “proper service” without requiring drivers to work on their days off.
Union’s Perspective on Pay and Negotiations
Mick Whelan, the General Secretary of Aslef, stated that the strike action is a last resort due to the train companies’ refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations or make a reasonable pay offer.
Train drivers have not received a pay raise since 2019, despite the soaring cost of living.
Whelan criticized the government’s approach, suggesting they are willing to let passengers and businesses suffer in an attempt to exert pressure on the union.
Aslef members are seeking a fair pay increase to offset the impact of inflation.
Continued Dispute and Potential for Further Action
This upcoming strike marks the 12th one-day strike by Aslef members since the inception of the dispute over a year ago.
Whelan warned of potential additional strikes if the deadlock continues, as members urge the union to escalate their efforts.
Impact on Passengers and Rail Network
While the rail industry aims to maintain services during the strike, passengers are likely to experience disruptions.
The RMT’s concurrent strikes, targeting August 26 and September 2, will also contribute to reduced services.
Passengers are advised to plan ahead, as services are expected to operate at around half capacity in some areas.
The strikes will likely lead to changes in schedules, affecting both evening services before strike days and morning services after them.
Rail Unions’ Perspective and Rail Delivery Group’s Response
Rail unions are campaigning against plans to close most railway ticket offices, with over 300,000 individuals participating in a consultation that ends on September 1.
The Rail Delivery Group emphasized its efforts to maintain service levels, though disruptions are expected.
The RMT’s strikes are seen as targeting events like sporting events and festivals, impacting passengers’ plans and local economies.
The Rail Delivery Group called attention to a previously rejected offer of up to 13% pay increase for the lowest-paid workers over two years as a potential resolution to the dispute.
Passengers holding Advance tickets affected by cancellations or delays are eligible for fee-free refunds.
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