Rail strikes continue in Scotland against driver only operation
British rail union RMT has already coordinated strikes across Scotland over the safety and accessibility risks of moving to a de-staffed, faceless railway with driver-only operation.
Now RMT has confirmed further days of industrial action in August to try and pressure the Scottish Government to drag their Dutch-owned contractors, Abellio/Scotrail, to the negotiating table.
RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said:
“Recent rock-solid strikes on ScotRail have been supported by the travelling public who understand that the staff are fighting for the basic principles of rail safety.
“In spite of this Abellio/Scotrail continue to ignore the strength of feeling amongst their staff and passengers over the extension of DOO. That is why we have no choice but to announce further strike dates.
“The workforce knows only too well that there is a very real threat to passengers of watering down and wiping out the safety critical role of the guard on these Scotrail services. That is a lethal gamble with basic rail safety. We have had fantastic support from the travelling public for our action as passengers know full well that this strike is all about their safety.
“The union remains available for serious and meaningful talks.”
“Recent rock-solid strikes on ScotRail have been supported by the travelling public who understand that the staff are fighting for the basic principles of rail safety.
“In spite of this Abellio/Scotrail continue to ignore the strength of feeling amongst their staff and passengers over the extension of DOO. That is why we have no choice but to announce further strike dates.
“The workforce knows only too well that there is a very real threat to passengers of watering down and wiping out the safety critical role of the guard on these Scotrail services. That is a lethal gamble with basic rail safety. We have had fantastic support from the travelling public for our action as passengers know full well that this strike is all about their safety.
“The union remains available for serious and meaningful talks.”