24.05.17
RMT calls off strike action following Manchester attack
The RMT has announced that it will not go ahead with a 24-hour strike on Tuesday 30 May following the terror attack in Manchester.
The union was due to walk out on Merseyrail, Northern and Southern next week over the proposed changes by the operators to introduce driver-only operated services on their trains.
But following Monday evening’s incident, where a suicide bomber targeted people coming out of an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena, which has left 22 people dead and many others in critical condition, the union has deemed it necessary to call off the industrial action. Theresa May has also stated that the country’s terrorist threat level has now been raised to “critical”.
“In light of the horrific bombing in Manchester last night, and the heightened safety and security alerts on our transport services, RMT’s executive has taken the decision to suspend the 24 hours of strike action scheduled for Tuesday 30 May on Merseyrail, Northern Rail and Southern Rail,” said general secretary of the union Mick Cash.
“Our thoughts and solidarity at this time are with the people of Manchester.”
A spokesman for Southern added that the RMT’s decision was the correct course of action, saying: “This is an appropriate response by the RMT to the tragedy in Manchester. We thank them for taking this step.”
Manchester Victoria remains closed
Monday’s attack has led to the closure of Manchester Victoria station, which is only a stone’s throw away from where the incident took place.
Liam Sumpter, regional director of Northern, said: “Manchester Victoria station will remain closed on Wednesday and it could be several days before it reopens.
“We are working to provide as many services as possible while the station remains closed, but customers need to be aware that there may be some short notice cancellations and delays.”
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the people who have lost their lives and those who were injured on Monday evening.”
Top Image: Nick Ansell PA Wire
Have you got a story to tell? Would you like to become an RTM columnist? If so, click here.