Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) members at Network Rail and 13 train operators will strike on June 21, 23, and 25.
In a separate dispute over jobs and pensions, the RMT announced another 24-hour strike on London Underground.
The tube workers’ strike will coincide with the first rail strike on June 21, threatening widespread travel chaos. According to the union, this will be the largest rail strike since 1989.
Last month, union members overwhelmingly voted for strike action in the midst of escalating disputes over pay and job losses.
According to the RMT, rail workers who worked during the pandemic would face pay freezes and hundreds of job cuts.
“Railway workers have been treated appallingly,” RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said. “Despite our best efforts in negotiations, the rail industry, with the support of the government, has failed to take their concerns seriously.”
We are in a cost-of-living crisis, and it is unconscionable for railway workers to lose their jobs or face another year of pay freezes when inflation is 11.1 percent and rising.
“Our union will now launch a sustained campaign of industrial action that will result in the railway system being shut down.”
Rail companies profit at least £500 million per year, while fat cat rail bosses have been paid millions during the Covid-19 pandemic. “This unfairness is fueling our members’ rage and determination to win a fair settlement.”
RMT is willing to engage in meaningful talks with rail executives and ministers, but they will need to come up with new proposals to avoid months of disruption on our railways.”
According to the union, over 50,000 railway workers will strike on June 21.
