Train drivers at CrossCountry will strike on October 3 in a dispute over terms and conditions. Members of the Aslef union will also refuse to work non-contractual overtime from September 21.
The union said the dispute centres on the company's "persistent refusal" to adhere to negotiated agreements. Aslef accused CrossCountry management of failing to honour previously agreed terms.
Aslef general secretary Mick Whelan said: "Whatever some people think, we do not ballot for industrial action, or take strike action, lightly. Because we believe in Britain's railways, we do not wish to inconvenience passengers and our members do not want to lose money."
Management disputes and passenger impact
Whelan explained the union's position on the dispute. He said: "We only walk out when we have been pushed too far by a belligerent management, and that's what's happened here. When we make agreements, we stick by them. This company doesn't. That's why we are taking strike action."
The union leader directed his message at passengers, stating: "Passengers need to know it's the result of bad managers, acting in bad faith, that they will not be able to travel as and when they would wish." CrossCountry's managing director Shiona Rolfe expressed disappointment at the union's decision and said the company remains committed to reaching an agreement.
Strong union backing for action
Nine out of 10 Aslef members at CrossCountry voted in favour of strike action. A separate vote saw 96 per cent backing other forms of industrial action.
Aslef represents 632 members at CrossCountry. The overwhelming support demonstrates widespread frustration among drivers with the company's approach to negotiations.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
