SOLID STRIKE ACTION AT TRAIN OPERATING COMPANIES

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: may 2023 :: RMTnews 5 RMT members across 14 train operating companies took strike action earlier this month to demand a fair deal for rail workers. This strike took place following a recent re-ballot of members working for all 14 companies which massively re- affirmed a mandate for further strike action. All the ballots passed the 50 per cent participation threshold imposed by the government’s anti-trade union laws and included massive votes for further strike action.  RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said that while the rail companies were threatening passengers and rail workers with cuts, the companies made a fortune during the Covid-19 pandemic. “Throughout this dispute – which has gone on for over a year – the government has tied the hands of the railway companies and prevented them offering a fair deal. “We are striking so that the employers and government can see the huge anger amongst rail workers is very real and they need to recognise that fact, face reality and make improved proposals. “We are calling for the rail companies to get around the table with RMT and negotiate in good faith for a better deal for rail workers,” he said. The Saturday May 13 date was chosen to take action as it was the last date allowed under this country’s stringent anti-trade union laws. A new mandate has now been secured for six months that will run to November 3.   RMT is also opposed to the legislation because part of the Bill puts transport workers in situations of conflict. Specifically, the Bill gives immigration officers power to instruct a transport worker, a train guard or a seafarer, for example, to detain and restrain asylum seekers on their train or ship. People going to work to operate transport services, including RMT members, could be made liable for detaining and removing people who have been denied due legal process under these draconian provisions. In briefings issued to MPs and Peers the union is calling on the government to be challenged on a number of points including: • Will transport workers be arrested and or prosecuted if they do not detain asylum seekers in line with this appalling legislation? • Transport workers are often advised not to put themselves in situation of conflict when performing their contractual duties. Why is this situation any different? • What consultation has the government conducted with employers in the transport industry regarding these powers, which amount to state appropriation of public and private employees? • What is the status of government legislation which is not compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights and is subject to international legal challenge after becoming law in the UK? This is not the first time that this government has sought to drag transport workers into its agenda. The Nationality and Borders Act 2022 originally threatened seafarers with life imprisonment for unknowingly facilitating asylum claims in the UK. Following pressure from RMT and others the government removed from the Bill the threat to seafarers. RMT will continue to challenge the illegal migration Bill in parliament and also lobby to protect transport workers.   SOLID STRIKE ACTION AT TRAIN OPERATING COMPANIES Re-ballot passes threshold imposed by anti-trade union laws with massive votes for action