Rail Workers Demand Same Pay as Drivers

Rail workers represented by the RMT union are demanding the same pay terms as train drivers to conclude their ongoing strike, which has persisted for over two years. The recent agreement for train drivers includes a three-year pay deal with a 4.5% increase for the current year. The RMT has announced it will engage in pay negotiations next week with the Department for Transport, which represents the train operating companies, as well as discussions with Network Rail. The RMT's previous deal, established last November, provided its members, including train guards, with a backdated 5% pay rise for 2022/23, mirroring the offer made to Aslef members. However, the proposed pay for 2023/24 will be contingent on negotiations with individual train companies regarding working conditions, and is expected to be lower than the 4.75% increase offered to Aslef drivers. RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch expressed optimism that the union would receive a "parallel, synchronised offer" similar to that of Aslef. He criticized the previous government's role in negotiations, asserting that it was more than just a facilitator due to the financial context. The RMT is also set to discuss pay issues with the Ministry of Defence for its Royal Fleet Auxiliary members, who are currently on strike over pay disputes. Lynch emphasized the need to move past the confrontational approach of the last government to foster better industrial relations, allowing rail workers and RFA seafarers to focus on their roles effectively.