11.05.16
RMT accused of ‘cynical ploy’ over changed strike dates
The industrial dispute over plans to introduce driver-operated only (DOO) trains on Southern has grown more heated after a sudden change of strike date from union RMT.
Southern accused RMT of trying to deliberately maximise the disruption caused by the strikes by changing the date from 20 May to 18 May, while RMT accused Southern of attacking members’ human rights.
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), Southern’s parent company, said that RMT was trying to maximise the impact of the strike by moving it from a Friday to a Wednesday, when passenger numbers are higher, with only the required minimum of seven days’ notice.
A GTR spokesperson said: “This is clearly a cynical ploy by RMT leadership to maximise the disruption their action will have on passengers. This action is completely unnecessary; there’s a job for everyone who wants one and no-one will have a cut in salary. The only difference is that conductors will no longer close a train’s doors.”
The date change is the second from RMT, who were originally set to strike on 12 and 13 May after a first round of strikes on 26 April, which led to 700 trains being cancelled.
An attempt at talks between the two sides fell apart last week.
RMT said they had changed the date in response to a “hostile and aggressive stance” and “attacks on basic human rights” from Southern.
Mick Cash, RMT general secretary, repeated RMT’s previous arguments that DOO compromises passenger safety.
He said: “Southern GTR should be under no illusions, the union will not bend to their bullying and threats and we will be out there building on the huge public support we have already mobilised in a campaign that pitches the demands for increasing private profits against safety on our railways.
“The company know that they are losing the public battle and have resorted to some of the dirtiest tactics seen in an industrial struggle in Britain in many years.”
Cash added that RMT was seeking support from other unions for the strikes, saying they would “define” industrial relations this year.
GTR replied: “We totally refute the RMT’s groundless allegations.”
(Image c. Dominic Lipinski from PA Wire)
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