Midland Main Line train drivers, members of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineeers & Fireman, have voted by 86.9% in favour of strike action. The company has been accused by ASLEF of ‘underhand tactics by refusing to enhance pension provision when previous pay improvements have been agreed’.
Since privatisation in 1997 all pay increases have included an increase in the fully pensionable pay as part of the pay deal, except 2001 where the pensionable pay stayed static, even though the pay award reaffirmed it would be included. The accumulated effect is that pensionable pay is several thousands of pounds short.
Five 24 hour strike dates have been set for November.
Another rail company Silverlink appears to have short changed their drivers by about £2 million pounds from their pension. That means drivers are also several pounds short in their pensionable pay. ASLEF Drivers in Silverlink have voted by 90.5% for industrial action. They have planned to strike five times in November for 24 hours, one day after Midland Main Line drivers.
ASLEF have also sent solidarity message to striking French railway workers.
‘We understand the principles you are fighting for. We appreciate the need to take action in the face of an employer that is determined to rip up agreements it has with you. We fully endorse your right to a pension scheme which was freely negotiated with your employer. And finally we admire the resolve of the French trade unions and their members who are prepared to defend themselves against the extremist Sarkozy government.’
