National rail strikes as union members stage three 24-hour walkouts

Photo: Russell Clarke

A Northern train pictured at Castleton

Union members at Network Rail and 13 train operators, including Northern, will stage 24-hour walkouts on 21, 23 and 25 June.

The strikes have been called by the railway workers trade union, RMT, because of a dispute over pay and terms and conditions.

Over 50,000 railway workers will walkout in the biggest dispute on the network since 1989.

Local rail operator Northern has advised people not to travel between 21 and 26 June and to make alternative plans, as there will be no replacement buses or alternative travel provided.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: "Railway workers have been treated appallingly and despite our best efforts in negotiations, the rail industry with the support of the government has failed to take their concerns seriously.

"We have a cost-of-living crisis, and it is unacceptable for railway workers to either lose their jobs or face another year of a pay freeze when inflation is at 11.1% and rising.

"Our union will now embark on a sustained campaign of industrial action which will shut down the railway system.

"Rail companies are making at least £500m a year in profits, whilst fat cat rail bosses have been paid millions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"This unfairness is fuelling our members' anger and their determination to win a fair settlement.

"RMT is open to meaningful negotiations with rail bosses and ministers, but they will need to come up with new proposals to prevent months of disruption on our railways."

Northern says: “You will be entitled to a refund for dates affected by strike action if not travelling, details can be found in the FAQs [on the Northern web site].

“Details of the limited train services that will run will be released as soon as possible and will be found on the timetables page but please be aware that these are subject to change.

“We apologise in advance for the disruption and inconvenience that the RMT’s industrial action may cause.”