Network Rail strikes suspended as staff enter new negotiations over pay deal

A series of planned strikes by railway workers beginning this Saturday have been suspended, it has been announced.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has shelved planned industrial action on November 5, 7 and 9 in order to enter “intensive” negotiations with Network Rail and other operators.

The union said that its “strong industrial campaign” over the past few months led to securing unconditional talks with Network Rail, alongside of a promise of a pay offer.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch had accused bosses of “torpedoing negotiations” for a new deal after attempting to change members’ terms and conditions.

ScotRail services were among those affected by the strikes, with the number of services operating on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday slashed.

RMT said the current dispute “remains live”, and the union will continue its re-ballot of members to secure a fresh mandate for action with the result due on November 15.

“The threat of strike action and our strongly supported industrial campaign has made the rail employers see sense,” RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said.

“We have always wanted to secure a negotiated settlement and that is what we will continue to push for in this next phase of intensive talks.

“Our priority is our members, and we are working towards securing a deal on job security, a decent pay rise and good working conditions.

“Our re-ballot remains live and if we have to take strike action during the next 6 months to secure a deal, we will.”