COMMUTERS can expect disruptions as London Underground drivers are set to stage a series of strikes over the next few months.
The strikes, which will last for 24 hours periods, will take place as a response to disputes over hours, the Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) Union has announced.
London Underground services will be disrupted as drivers announce a series of 24 hour strikes over the coming months (stock image)Credit: Getty
The strike action is in direct response to the introduction of a compressed four-day working week for tube drivers, according to the RMT Union .
London Underground bosses are moving ahead with the plan to compress the working week despite the proposals being rejected by a majority of Train Operators in online referendums.
Union members have cited concerns relating to shift lengths, unacceptable working time arrangements, transfer and allocation processes, and the potential impact on fatigue and safety.
The strikes are scheduled to take place on the following dates:
- 24–25 March (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 26–27 March (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
- 21–22 April (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 23–24 April (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
- 19–20 May (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 21–22 May (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
While union representatives have attempted to resolve the situation over several months, London Underground has refused to negotiate, pushing ahead with the plan without an agreement.
As part of the action, union members have been instructed not to use any company-issued electronic devices, including iPads, from 21 March until further notice.
The union confirmed around 1,800 of its members were involved in the dispute.
Eddie Dempsey, RMT General Secretary, said: “London Underground is trying to force through major changes to working patterns that have already been rejected by our members.
“We are clear that these proposals raise serious concerns around fatigue, safety and work-life balance.
“Despite our best efforts over many months, no satisfactory outcome has been reached so we have no choice but to call strike dates.
“There is still time for London Underground to come up with a workable solution but we will take strike action if we cannot get a negotiated settlement.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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