Rail workers at three firms 'solidly supporting' strikes in bitter disputes
WORKERS at three rail companies were said to be "solidly supporting" strikes in bitter disputes over staffing and driver-only trains, causing fresh misery for passengers.
Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union at Southern, Merseyrail and Arriva Trains North mounted picket lines outside stations as services were disrupted or cancelled.
Drivers on Merseyrail, who are in the Aslef union, were not expected to cross picket lines, leaving managers to drive trains.
The Southern walkout was the 33rd day of action by the RMT in a row which started more than a year ago.
General secretary Mick Cash said: "Once again this morning safety-critical staff on Southern Rail are being forced by this rogue rail operator to take action in defence of safe and accessible services.
It is a disgrace that Southern have chosen to continue their war on staff and passengers
"It is a disgrace that Southern have chosen to continue their war on staff and passengers alike rather than negotiate a settlement that protects the principle of safe railways for all.
"RMT members on Southern, Northern and Merseyrail remain absolutely rock-solid and determined in separate disputes that have the common objective of putting safe rail travel before private profit.
RMT General Secretary Mick Cash defends strike action
"The total failure of these profiteering rail companies, egged on and encouraged by their political masters in the minority Tory Government, to make a single move to resolve these disputes, speaks volumes.
"RMT is available for serious talks but every approach we make is kicked back in our faces.
"It's time for the rail companies and the Government to get out of the bunker and get talks on that address the fundamental issues of safety, accessibility and the guard guarantee."