Disruption for North East rail users as 24 hour strike begins
Fears over passenger safety has sparked major disruption for Cumbria's rail commuters this morning.
Rail users in the North East are bracing themselves for major disruption to journeys as staff begin a 24-hour strike.
The industrial action has been organised by the RMT Union over decisions to remove train conductors - with fears over passenger safety.
Micky Thompson, RMT North East Regional Organiser based in South Shields, said:
“Despite my union being prepared to negotiate and despite putting compromises on the table the employer will not enter into any such discussion. As a result of that we’re now in industrial action.
“It’s an attack on not only the terms and conditions of my members and the job security of my members but they’re throwing safety into the wind and I think that’s unacceptable.”
Northern have reduced services by 40 percent - advising customers to only make essential travel.
Sharon Keith, Regional Director for Northern, said:
“Modernising the train journey of our customers means we have to make changes. We want to involve everyone as we develop our plans, from our customers and communities, to employees and their trade unions.
“Our proposals are still in the early stages, so it is disappointing that RMT is taking strike action on Monday 13 March, because there is lots of time to talk and agree how we modernise the way we provide customer service. As part of our proposals we are prepared to offer guarantees on jobs and pay to our people.”
In the North East Arriva has announced that all valid train tickets will be accepted on their buses during the strike. In addition, extra buses will be put on during peak times.
Nick Knox, area managing director said:
"Monday will be a stressful day for the public as they try to get to and from work, or go about their normal daily routine. We have decided to make this easier and allow people to travel on our services for free if they have a valid train ticket."
Any passengers with a valid train ticket will be able to use this on any Arriva bus service on Monday and travel free of charge with Arriva buses.
Find more information at: https://www.rmt.org.uk/home/