01.08.12
RMT strike ‘would not affect services’ – Heathrow Express
Heathrow Express says a potential RMT strike will not affect the running of the service.
An Olympic Games reward scheme was created for directly employed staff, who will receive a bonus if extra passenger volumes and revenues are experienced on specific peak days. However, this deal does not cover contractors employed by Amey Rail and BAA, RMT has stated. The union has also criticised Heathrow Express’ offer of a 1.75% pay increase, which it viewed as a “cut to standards of living”.
A spokeswoman for Amey said: “Amey is disappointed with the RMT’s decision to ballot its members for strike action, as the negotiations are ongoing. We are committed to avoiding any industrial action and continue to negotiate a fair employment package for our Hex (Heathrow Express) employees.”
Union general secretary Bob Crow said yesterday: “Here we have yet another group of contracted workers in the rail industry who are being told to take a hit on their pay and working conditions while the companies who employ them look to widen their profit margins.”
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