RAIL STRIKES COULD CONTINUE AFTER LATEST OFFER REJECTION

RMT members have voted to reject the latest pay offer from ScotRail, with the union’s negotiating team set to meet bosses today to seek an improved offer.

A statement from the union whose members include ticket examiners, conductors and station staff on Friday says members rejected management’s offer by 60 to 40 percent in a referendum.

Responding to the decision, RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “Our members have spoken and ScotRail will have to come up with an improved package.

We will now seek an urgent meeting with the company. If no improved offer is forthcoming then we will ballot our ScotRail members for strike action.”

Responding to the news that RMT members in Scotland have voted to reject a pay offer from ScotRail, a Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “This is a disappointing result, particularly in light of the fair and affordable offer made.

Any continued industrial action will undoubtedly have negative impacts on passengers which, in turn, have further implications for rail finances. The required timetable changes and cancellations also discourage a return to rail at a time when we are trying to build back patronage.” They added: “Despite this disappointing outcome, we are still very much committed to working with the RMT union to reach a mutually favourable outcome to this dispute. We would urge all parties to get back round the table as soon as possible so that this can be resolved soonest for the benefit of staff, passengers and the economy.”