UK’s RMT Union Halts Network Rail Strike Action After Pay Offer

The Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers’ union of the UK has called off a strike next week against Network Rail, after receiving a new pay offer from the employer.

The RMT said “there will be a referendum on the new offer held with further details to be announced,” in a statement released Tuesday.

The union had been planning a full-day strike among Network Rail members, who work on the upkeep of the tracks, on Mar. 16. Strikes are still set to go ahead across 14 train operating companies on Mar. 16, 18 and 30 and Apr. 1.

The decision to consult members has raised hopes of a breakthrough in the pay dispute that has seen months of disruption on the rail network. Since June last year, commuters have suffered nearly 30 days of rail strikes as workers demand higher raises, job security and improved conditions.

Network Rail Chief Executive Andrew Haines said the company is “relieved for our people, passengers and freight customers that industrial action in Network Rail has now been suspended,” according to a statement provided to BBC News. “We look forward to further information on plans for a referendum.” 

The RMT had previously said pay offers from Network Rail and train companies were “dreadful” and had been rejected following a wide consultation with local branches of the labor group. It represents more than 40,000 rail workers.