The deputy managing director of the company, operated by Arriva Rail North, has urged the rail union to continue talks to resolve a dispute over the future role of train guards.
Richard Allan said: “It is frustrating for us and our customers that RMT has announced further strike action for Tuesday, May 30. We urge RMT to get back round the table with us for open-minded, meaningful talks on the role they can play in delivering the modern railway that people of the North want and deserve. We want to protect jobs and current pay and, as we have said before, are willing to offer future, annual pay reviews for existing conductors if we can agree a deal.”
But the union said a further 24-hour strike was necessary due to the company “digging their heels in on the crucial issue” of the guarantee of a second member of staff on trains for safety reasons.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “The sheer intransigence of Arriva Rail North means that we have no option but to confirm a further 24 hours of strike action. The responsibility for the inevitable disruption lies wholly with the company.”
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