10 July 2015
RMT Press Office
RMT suspends Southern Engineers strike action after breakthrough in last minute talks this morning
RAIL UNION RMT today confirmed that strike action by fleet engineers on Southern Rail due to start this weekend has been suspended after a breakthrough in last minute talks with the company this morning.
Agreement has been reached on the pivotal issue of a reduction in the working week.
In a letter to members, RMT General Secretary Mick Cash, says:
“This morning the union’s negotiating team attended talks with Southern in an effort to resolve the current dispute. At these talks the following resolution was agreed between your union and management:-
"During the forthcoming pay talks, Southern (with the agreement of GTR) will make an offer which will include a reduction in the working week, in a phased way, to a 37 hour week by May 2017 as part of a multi-year deal to be negotiated with GTR.
Southern recognises that the hard work and commitment of our engineering staff has contributed towards the efficient operation of the company over the life of the franchise and any pay offer will be fully cognisant of this fact.”
In recognition of this major breakthrough, it has been agreed to suspend both the strike action and the overtime ban. Therefore you are instructed to work as normal.
Additionally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank members for their steadfast support in this dispute. I will, of course, keep you advised of any further developments as and when they arise in this matter.”
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