More than 40,000 Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) union members at Network Rail and 15 train operating firms have walked off the job in a dispute over jobs, wages, and working conditions.
Mick Lynch, the leader of the union, compared the government to a lingering “foul odor” and asserted that they “don’t know what they’re doing” as the latest train strike caused widespread inconvenience.
Mick Lynch, general secretary of the Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) union, urged new Prime Minister Liz Truss to make way for a “capable” successor while speaking on a picket line outside Euston station.
He stated, “They have no idea what they’re doing. They do not know how to be economics and how to run the railroad.
It will be better for all of us the sooner they vacate the way and allow competent individuals to enter.
“We are not affiliated with any anti-growth coalition. We are not opposed to the economy or the nation; we want the country to succeed.
“It is in our best interests for our people to be successful in that country. But I don’t believe that will happen under the current system.”
Mr. Lynch reacted with a grin when asked how long the present administration would remain in power. Things linger, wouldn’t you say? Like terrible odors.”
On Saturday, just about one-fifth of trains would operate, causing severe travel disruptions for travelers.
More than 40,000 Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) union members at Network Rail and 15 train operating firms have walked off the job in a dispute over jobs, wages, and working conditions.
Trains will only operate between 7.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m., as almost half of the network is closed for the whole of the day. Passengers are instructed to only travel by train if “necessary.”
As personnel return to their responsibilities early Sunday morning, trains will also be delayed.
Those who have tickets for canceled or rescheduled journeys are eligible for a refund and are encouraged to monitor National Rail Enquiries or their train operator’s website for updates.
Season ticket holders are also eligible for reimbursement under the delay refund scheme.
Ahead of the industrial action, Mr. Lynch urged the Secretary of State for Transport, Anne Marie Trevelyan, to “unfetter” the railway firms and permit them to seek a resolution with the rail unions.
About the continuing industrial problems, he stated that “a compromise may be reached” between rail unions and railway firms.
The Department of Transport issued a statement urging union leaders to collaborate with their employers “rather than against them.”
The new strike action follows a week of travel disruptions, including strikes on Saturday and Wednesday.
According to a previous analysis by the rail regulator, Network Rail’s maintenance personnel earn 18% more than the market median.
Mr. Lynch, commenting on the report, emphasized the significance of labor unions in ensuring “safe working environments” and said that the findings indicated a broader problem in the market.
Currently, no additional rail strikes are scheduled.
