‘Biggest rail strike’ could hit in weeks

THE “biggest rail strike in modern history” could hit as soon as next month according to the Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) union – raising the risk of supermarket shortages.

ScotRail bosses have already been forced to axe services and introduce a temporary timetable amid an ongoing dispute over pay.

With workers now pulling back from overtime, RMT has announced it will put a ballot to its members over potential strike action.

The Times has reported that, if strikes go ahead, it could be necessary for freight trains to take priority over passenger services to keep supermarket shelves stocked and petrol in the pumps.

The RMT has said the strike ballot will be put to its 40,000 members, who must make a decision by Tuesday.

If strikes are to go ahead, the union will need to give two weeks’ notice.

A third of ScotRail services are to be temporarily cut from next week in a move the RMT has labelled a “kick to the teeth” for members.

In Tayside and Fife, evening trains will be some of the hardest hit, with many commuters facing an early dash to the station or wondering how to get home.

Mick Lynch, general secretary of the union, said: “ScotRail needs to put its hands deeper into its pockets and start rewarding their staff properly.

“We are in the midst of a brutal cost-of-living crisis for workers, but it is still party time for shareholders, speculators and big business executives.

“All we are asking for is a pay award that reflects the value of railway workers and the service they provide to the public day in, day out.”

Another reason for possible strike action is Network Rail’s proposals to cut 2,500 maintenance jobs.

Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth claimed that the Scottish Government was not consulted over the proposals.

The RMT union will be balloting its members about strike action which could cause travel misery for Scots.