More than 50,000 rail workers staged a three-day walk-out last month, causing significant disruption around the country in what was the biggest industrial action event since 1989. The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) are protesting due to disputes with Network Rail and most train operators over pay, job security and working conditions.
Despite workers being offered a 5pc pay rise and cheaper travel for friends and family in an effort to avoid further action, the union has announced more walk-outs in the coming weeks. There are set to be two separate periods of strike action, the first of which is set to take place for 24 hours on 27 July .
RMT will take a further 2 days strike action on August 18 and 20 , bringing out over 40,000 workers across Network Rail and 14 train operating companies. RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: "The rail industry and the government need to understand that this dispute will not simply vanish.
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"They need to get serious about providing an offer on pay which helps deal with the cost-of-living crisis, job security for our members and provides good conditions at work. Recent proposals from Network Rail fell well short on pay and on safety around maintenance work and the train operating companies have not even made us a pay offer in recent negotiations.
"Now Grant Shapps has abandoned his forlorn hopes for the job of Prime Minister, he can get back to his day job and help sort this mess out. We remain open for talks, but we will continue our campaign until we reach a negotiated settlement."
Passengers are advised to plan ahead and check the train operator websites for more information and timetables, which are likely to be severely limited. Northern has advised customers not to travel, while Cross Country has urged passengers to only travel if necessary, as most trains and routes will not run on the affected days.
Avanti West Coast has suspended ticket sales for the affected days and offered a full refund for those with existing tickets. It has also advised customers with tickets from 26 to 28 July can use them anytime between now and 28 July while customers with tickets for travel from 18 to 21 August can use them anytime between now and 22 August.
Transpennine Express has advised passengers to expect disruption on days either side of the strike dates.
Affected companies are urging passengers to check timetables before travelling, and to expect any running trains to be significantly busier than usual.
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