A two year deal which cuts out strikes and gives staff a 10 percent pay rise spells peace on the railways throughout the Olympics.
The deal reached between Network Rail and the RMT means signalling and clerical staff receive RPI + 0.5% this year (backdated to January) and RPI + 0.5% for next year. The Olympics deal includes a £3.50 per hour additional pay rate for staff with special duties during the games. This applies to about 800 staff and is worth about £500 over the period.
Network Rail has agreed not to dismiss any staff during the Olympics period in return for a no-strike commitment by the union. Disputes will be referred to ACAS.
Says RMT General Secretary Bob Crow, ‘This is a ground breaking deal that gives Network Rail staff more than 10% on the basic between now and next year and which also puts a further £500 in their pockets for working shifts during the Olympics.’
Although pundits have dismissed the agreement as a ransom, rail chiefs are encouraged by the arrangement. Says David Higgins, Network Rail Chief Executive, ‘This is great news for the millions of people who will use the trains to enjoy the Olympics. Travellers get certainty that their journeys won’t be disrupted by industrial action during the games and our people get a fair deal linked to inflation and recognition of the vital role they’ll play in making this once-in-a-lifetime event, a success.’
