Train drivers at London Underground and 16 rail companies are set to go for industrial action next month, escalating a long-standing disagreement over pay and working conditions. The Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (Aslef) has announced a series of rolling one-day walkouts between 5th-8th April 5th, coupled with a six-day overtime ban. This action is intended to exert pressure on train companies to address the demand for a pay increase.
Despite efforts from both sides to reach a solution, negotiations have stagnated since the initial strikes began in July 2022. A significant number of one-day strikes have been staged during the 20-month dispute. The most recent pay proposal, which included 4% salary increments for two consecutive years, was rejected nearly a year ago in April 2023.
The affected companies and the Aslef union have yet to engage in formal talks since the rejection of the aforementioned proposal. In response to the impending strike action, train operators have emphasized the need for drivers to adapt to changing work practices to warrant wage increases, citing financial constraints within the industry. However, Aslef contends that such changes would compromise working conditions for drivers.
Mick Whelan, the General Secretary of Aslef, said that the union calls for meaningful negotiations, emphasizing the necessity of a revised pay deal for train drivers who have not seen a salary increase since 2019. Expressing disappointment over failing to address the dispute, Whelan said, “Our members voted overwhelmingly – yet again – for strike action. Those votes show a clear rejection by train drivers of the ridiculous offer put to us in April last year. We have given the government every opportunity to come to the table but it is now clear they do not want to resolve this dispute. They are happy for it to go on and on.”
Parallely, London Underground drivers affiliated with Aslef are also gearing up for strikes in April and May. The union has announced a 24-hour walkout on 8th April and 4th May, citing discontent with proposed changes to working conditions. Despite assurances from Transport for London (TfL) that no changes would be imposed without agreement from the unions, Aslef remains steadfast in its demand for genuine dialogue and action from management.
The Rail Delivery Group, representing train companies, has highlighted the detrimental impact of industrial action on commuters and pledged to mitigate disruptions. However, with negotiations at a standstill, the prospect of a swift resolution to the ongoing dispute appears increasingly elusive.
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