19/07/2006

Rail chaos averted as signal workers agree pay deal

A planned walk-out by signal workers has been called off, averting rail strikes that would have caused chaos throughout the rail network.

Thousands of signal workers had indicated plans for either a day-long strike on Friday 21 June or a 48-hour walkout the next week, over a dispute involving working hours and pay rises.

Network Rail and the Rail Maritime and Transport union have now agreed a proposed deal that includes a pay rise of 3.2%, backdated to April 2006, an increase in travel subsidies and higher rates of London allowances. Union members will vote on the deal in a forthcoming ballot, which will end on Friday 28 July.

John Armitt, Chief Executive of Network Rail, said: “This is good news for passengers and freight customers, who are no longer facing the disruption of a strike.

"We hope RMT members will vote to accept this deal, which includes a generous rise in pay and benefits, and which would see the 35-hour working starting next month."

(CL)

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