ScotRail strike could be avoided after drivers union mulls improved offer

A strike by ScotRail drivers has been potentially averted after a “significant breakthrough” in talks between the union and the rail operator.
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A ballot on industrial action has now been postponed while drivers’ union ASLEF makes a decision on an improved offer from ScotRail.

Commenting on the outcome of today’s talks ASLEF Scottish Organiser, Kevin Lindsay, said: “We are pleased that today significant progress has been made in our latest round of talks with ScotRail.”

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“The offer on pay has been increased to 5% and we have received improved offers on pay for rest day working, Sunday working allowances, driving instructor allowances, maternity pay and an extension of no compulsory redundancies to 5 years. There has also been an improved proposal around the non consolidated revenue scheme.”

“The Joint Working Party will also be looking at Sundays being part of the working week subject to negotiations by December 2027 as per the ASLEF charter.”

“All these proposals, we believe, represent a breakthrough and significant progress and is a recognition of the vital role our members play for society and the economy.”

“The full ASLEF negotiating team is recommending acceptance of the offer to our members through a referendum subject to Executive Committee approval.”

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David Simpson, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: “We’ve made a really good offer which recognises the cost-of-living challenges faced by families across the country and delivers good value for the public.“The feedback we’ve had from many drivers is that they recognise we have made a series of very good offers and we are pleased they will get a say in a referendum.“The railway plays a vital role in growing the economy and connecting communities. Now more than ever we all need to work together to attract more people to the railway as we recover from the impact of the pandemic.”

Industrial action may have been averted.Industrial action may have been averted.
Industrial action may have been averted.

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “We welcome ASLEF’s recognition of the very good offer on the table, an offer which is in part self-funded through increased revenue and roster flexibilities, and also that they will now take this to their members with a recommendation to accept”.

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