Avanti West Coast train managers are set to strike after rejecting a deal intended to resolve an ongoing dispute over rest day working conditions. The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union announced that the strike will take place on New Year’s Eve, 2 January, and on Sundays between 12 January and 25 May 2024.
Strike Action Dates
- New Year’s Eve (31 December 2023)
- 2 January 2024
- Sundays from 12 January to 25 May 2024
The strike will involve up to 400 RMT members, with 83% of the union members voting against a proposed agreement aimed at resolving the dispute. The RMT has stated that sustained strike action is necessary to focus Avanti West Coast management’s attention on reaching a negotiated settlement.
Background to the Dispute
The dispute centers around rest day working arrangements for the train managers. Avanti West Coast had made a revised offer to the union, but it was rejected in two separate referendums by union members. This marks a continuation of the disagreement over working conditions and rest day policies, which has led to the planned industrial action.
Impact on Services
Avanti West Coast operates six major routes across the west of the UK, including services from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly, and connecting cities such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Blackpool, Liverpool, and Wrexham. The strikes are expected to cause significant disruption to passengers traveling on these routes, especially during the busy holiday period and through the early months of 2024.
In response, an Avanti spokesperson expressed disappointment that their revised offer was rejected, calling it a reasonable solution to the dispute. They stated, “We remain open to working with the RMT to resolve the dispute.”
Union’s Response
An RMT spokesperson emphasized the union’s dissatisfaction with the company’s offer, stating that the members’ rejection of the proposed deal was clear and that strike action is necessary to push for a better agreement. The spokesperson added that the aim of the action is to ensure management takes the dispute seriously and moves towards a negotiated settlement.
Recent Suspension of Strikes
Earlier in December, planned strikes for 22, 23, and 29 December were suspended after the union agreed to put a suggested agreement to a vote. However, with the offer being overwhelmingly rejected, the strike action will resume as scheduled.
Broader Impact
The ongoing dispute is part of a wider pattern of industrial action in the UK’s rail sector. Other rail operators, such as London North Eastern Railway (LNER) and Great Western Railway (GWR), have also faced strikes and disruptions, particularly related to working conditions and pay.
As the strike action continues, passengers on Avanti West Coast’s routes can expect disruption during the winter holidays and into the spring of 2024. The union’s ongoing efforts highlight broader issues around pay, conditions, and working hours in the rail industry.