More rail disruption "likely" after latest strike, Cornwall's main operator warns
Great Western Railway says Sunday's services are expected to be busy
Last updated 21st Aug 2022
Cornwall's main rail operator is warning of further disruption as a hangover from Saturday's strikes.
Great Western Railway says Sunday's services are 'likely' to be affected, after members of the RMT, TSSA and Unite unions walked out over pay, job security and conditions.
It was the latest in a string of nationwide strikes but despite months' of talks, both sides still seem as far apart as ever in resolving the row.
In a statement, GWR added: "Disruption is likely to continue, and services are expected to be very busy. Trains will start later and there will be short notice cancellations. Please check before you travel.
"If you can delay your journey, tickets for travel on Sunday are valid up to Tuesday 23 August".
You can check the latest strike information and plan your journey on Great Western Railway's dedicated webpage.
Members of the RMT, the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association (TSSA) and Unite walked out for 24 hours on Saturday, affecting Network Rail and a number of train companies across the country.
RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch rejected suggestions that rail workers would agree to the current offer on the table if the union put it to a vote.
Asked on BBC Breakfast on Saturday whether he has evidence to the contrary, Mr Lynch said: "Absolutely, I did a meeting on Wednesday evening the night before the strike of 14,000 RMT members in an online rally and our members are out today demonstrating.
"I speak to thousands of our members every week, we consult at least 600 Network Rail reps on a weekly basis, and we know exactly what the mood of our members is".
The RMT claims Network Rail is attempting to impose compulsory redundancies and cuts to maintenance work and has accused rail chiefs of putting public safety at risk.
Transport Secretary refuses to get involved
The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has urged Mr Lynch to put Network Rail’s pay offer to workers for a vote.
In a letter to Mr Lynch on Saturday afternoon, the Transport Secretary said the railway operator’s proposal of an 8% pay rise over two years is "fair" and members should have the opportunity to resolve the dispute.
Andrew Haines, Network Rail Chief Executive, said: "It saddens me that we are again having to ask passengers to stay away from the railway due to unnecessary strike action, when we should be helping them enjoy their summers.
"We have made a good and fair offer but, with the exception of our TSSA management grades who accepted the deal, our unions are refusing to let our employees have a say, and sadly that means more disruption on the rail network".