Local Trains To Be Hit By Pre-Christmas Strike
RMT announces more industrial action on South Western Railway
RMT members demonstrate
South Western Railway (SWR) is set to see more industrial action following the announcement of another strike by the RMT union.
They have instructed their guards and drivers not to book on for any shifts on Saturday 22 December which is likely to hit the holiday travel plans of people returning home for Christmas.
They claim that SWR continues to refuse to engage in a serious talks process that could reach an agreement in the long running guards' safety dispute.
RMT General Secretary, Mick Cash said, “South Western Railway continues to refuse to make any progress at all in resolving this dispute, which is about safety, security and access on South Western Railway. The company are hell bent on opening up a loophole that would allow them to run services driver only at their discretion.
“Recent figures have shown a shocking surge in violence on our railways across the festive season and it is frankly appalling that South Western Railway are looking for a green light to throw the guard off their trains as and when they see fit in the name of profit.
"SWR might think it’s acceptable to play fast and loose with passenger safety, security and access but RMT members, who have stood firm throughout this dispute despite appalling harassment from the company, will not accept a dilution of the safety regime on the railway.”
The same union have announced their intention to strike on the Central Line on Friday 21 December and Saturday 22 December.
A SWR spokesperson said at the time of a previous strike, “We have guaranteed a guard to be rostered on every single service, and our growth plans mean more guards, not fewer. It is time for the union to stop spreading myths and causing misery to our customers and colleagues, and commit to resolving this dispute.
“If the union decides to continue with its unnecessary action, we will do everything we can to keep our customers moving and reduce disruption.”
SWR are providing live updates on services duringstrikes.
December 7, 2018