Fourth Rail Union Ballots ScotRail Workers Amid Pay Dispute

ScotRail workers are facing potential strike action as the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) ballots 500 members over what they describe as a "miserly" pay offer. This move follows similar actions by three other unions—Unite, Aslef, and RMT—indicating a growing discontent among rail staff. The TSSA has warned that passengers could experience a "summer of discontent" if the situation remains unresolved, as ScotRail has already cut 600 services and implemented an emergency timetable due to the ongoing pay dispute. The TSSA's general secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust, criticized ScotRail's latest pay proposal, which offers a 9% increase spread over three years, translating to a mere 2% rise this year. This figure falls significantly short of the January Retail Price Index (RPI) of 4.9% and is less than the 5.5% pay increase announced for public sector workers such as nurses and teachers. Eslamdoust labeled the offer an "insult" to the union's members, highlighting the growing frustration among ScotRail staff. In response, ScotRail has expressed its commitment to negotiations aimed at reaching a fair agreement for its employees while ensuring value for taxpayer subsidies. Scotland's Public Finance Minister, Ivan McKee, acknowledged the funding constraints from Westminster but emphasized the government's efforts to support public sector workers, noting that salaries in Scotland are generally higher than the UK average. As the situation develops, the potential for widespread industrial action looms, raising concerns about the impact on Scotland's rail services and commuters.