Statement on forthcoming strike action at West Midlands Trains

Rail union TSSA has said strikes planned for later this week at West Midlands Trains over rest day working payments are still due to take place.  

TSSA is seeking parity with other unions on rest day pay - but talks today between the union and the arbitration service ACAS produced no breakthrough. Therefore, walkouts remain in place for this coming Thursday, Friday and Saturday across the WMT network with the strong likelihood of services being cancelled under a much-reduced timetable. 

The action involves Roster Clerks who are due to walk out on Thursday (21st May) from midnight (00.01) for 24 hours, and also Duty Train Crew Managers and Control Staff who have planned strike action from noon on Friday (22nd May) until midday Saturday (23rd) May.   

TSSA balloted over 100 members across these roles for the relevant industrial action. 

Commenting, TSSA General Secretary Maryam Eslamdoust said: “As things stand these strikes will go ahead as planned because the company is simply refusing to give our members parity with those in other unions.  

“That is an intolerable situation, especially given the fact these are modest demands. Our reps at West Midlands Trains have consulted the membership and they remain determined to proceed with their legitimate action.  

“It’s now up to the company to come to their senses and stop these walkouts. Our union remains open to further discussions and only takes strike action as a last resort.”