21.05.15
Unions calls off strike after improved Network Rail offer
The TSSA and RMT have both announced they have suspended planned strike action next week after receiving an improved pay offer from Network Rail.
The unions had previously rejected a four-year pay deal of a £500 increase followed by three years of rises in line with inflation.
But the new and improved deal, which was reached after four days of crisis talks between Network Rail and the unions at Acas, has led to both unions abandoning their industrial action.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: "Following the Acas talks, RMT has received a revised offer that enables us to suspend the planned industrial action while we consult in full with our Network Rail representatives."
Manuel Cortes, general secretary of the union, said: "Our negotiating team at Acas has received a revised offer from Network Rail. As a result of this, they have suspended the planned industrial action, pending the outcome of a meeting of our workplace representatives next week."
Earlier today RTM reported on the mass cancellation of rail services planned for the two days when industrial action is scheduled to take place.
However now that both unions have cancelled their strike plans it is expected that all operators will run a normal service.
Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin and Network Rail welcomed the decision.
No details are yet available on what has been included in the new pay offer.
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