ScotRail dispute: north-east train passengers face summer of disruption

People in the north-east could see their travel plans disrupted this summer - as a strike involving ScotRail staff continues until at least mid-July.

Ticket inspectors and conductors are in dispute with the operator over rest day pay arrangements.

They have been taking part in strike action for several weeks and refusing to work on a Sunday - leading to the widespread cancellation of services across the country.

Now members of the RMT union have confirmed the action will continue until at least Sunday July 18.

It means people hoping to head on holidays or day trips during the summer could see their travel plans disrupted.

RMT general secretary Mike Lynch said: "RMT ScotRail ticket examiners will be taking strike action again this Sunday and every Sunday for the next two months in their fight for workplace justice and parity between grades.

"Our conductor members are also fully prepared to keep this battle for equality going until the company do the right thing. 

"It is a kick in the teeth for these workers that despite their commitment throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Transport Scotland continues to wage war on essential workers who have kept Scotland’s rail services running. 

"We are going to be in for a long summer of strike action unless the company gets round the negotiating table with meaningful proposals for resolving the issue of pay equality. RMT remains available for talks."

ScotRail has accused the union of issuing "different versions of the same narrative" since starting the industrial action - and "misrepresenting" the position.

The operator says it cannot afford to pay workers any extra as it faces the most serious financial crisis in its history.

David Simpson, operations director, said: "The RMT union’s strike action during a pandemic is wrong, divisive, and it should be called off.

"ScotRail’s position on 50% overtime pay increases for no additional hours worked will not change in the face of the strike action, given the severe financial challenges we face.

"Now that lockdown restrictions are lifting, we all need to work together to attract more people back to the railway, which is the only thing that will provide long-term job security and give the rail network a sustainable future.

"The reckless actions of RMT bosses are putting railway jobs at risk."