RMT pay deal ends threat of strike action at COP26

A deal has been agreed between the RMT and ScotRail to avoid further strike action.

In a joint statement from ScotRail and RMT, it says the following agreement was reached:

• A one year pay deal comprising of a 2.5 per cent pay increase backdated to 01 April 2021.
• A payment of £300 to all staff ensuring COP26 is fully supported (separate agreement with full details on commitments is to be signed).
• A 3 hour book-on allowance applied to each rest day worked, applicable for 12 months from the date of this agreement.

By accepting this offer, it is agreed that all current disputes between RMT and ScotRail will be resolved and that all current and planned Industrial Action will be withdrawn immediately.

The statement continues: “Our talks acknowledged the pressures on Scotland’s railway, and we agreed that by working together and exploring future productivity initiatives we will be able to build a sustainable future for ScotRail.”

Ian McConnell, ScotRail Chief Operating Officer, said: “We have reached a pay agreement with the RMT trade union that resolves strike action.

“We look forward to Scotland’s Railway playing its part in delivering a successful COP26 next week.”

Mick Lynch, RMT General Secretary, said: “Following further discussions between RMT and ScotRail an agreement has been reached and the proposals have been accepted by the union.

“As the disputes are resolved strike action has been cancelled and RMT members have been advised to work normally.”

Reacting to the news Transport Minister Graeme Dey said: “Following recent discussions we are pleased that all four trade unions have now agreed to accept this very good pay offer on behalf of their members. We are proud to have brokered and funded a deal which gives Scotland’s rail workers a decent pay rise and improved terms and conditions, in contrast to conditions for rail workers under the UK Government.

“We are also pleased that the RMT reached out to restart discussions based on the offer that had been made to them on Sunday. Now an agreement has been confirmed the strike action will thankfully now come to an end.

“As well as getting the pay rise they deserve, railway workers can now go back to delivering rail services for people right across Scotland and as well as for those attending COP26. Allowing everyone who works in Scotland’s Railways to play their part in welcoming the world to our country and showcase our efforts towards building a greener, cleaner railway.”

Photo credit: ScotRail

Download article