24.08.12
Trans-Pennine Express cleaners strike for better pay
Cleaners, security staff and train dispatchers are on strike for 24 hours today in a dispute over pay. The workers are employed by Carlisle Cleaning and Support Services and work on the Trans-Pennine Express.
The rail union RMT is conducting a strike over a “sub-inflation pay offer”, which they suggest would result in a real-terms pay cut to low-paid staff.
The industrial action covers a two-week overtime and rest-day working ban from Saturday, after the companies in question turned down an offer of talks at conciliation service Acas.
RMT general secretary Bob Crow said: “Carlisle has had ample opportunity to settle this dispute, but the company has continued to treat our members with contempt by attempting to impose another effective pay cut.
“Our members on this contract suffer some of the worst conditions in the industry, with no sick-pay, no paid meal breaks and no enhanced pay rates for working overtime, nights, weekends or even bank holidays.
“For a company that boasts about its commitment to service its attitude to our members is unacceptable, and its attempt to make low-paid workers subsidise its profits is beneath contempt.
“Carlisle knows that RMT is ready to talk, but the company needs to recognise our members’ anger and accept that it needs to make a positive move towards us.”
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Image c. Alvey and Towers