Passengers planning to travel with CrossCountry trains this December are facing major disruption as staff represented by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) have announced a series of strikes.
Strike Dates and Core Issues
The industrial action is scheduled for four key Saturdays in the busy run-up to Christmas and the New Year. Walkouts are planned for December 6, December 13, December 20, and December 27.
The union has stated that the rail operator has failed to resolve a long-running dispute concerning pay, staffing shortages, and previously agreed commitments. RMT General Secretary, Eddie Dempsey, expressed the union's frustration, stating that the company had returned with a proposal worse than what was initially offered.
"Our members are still facing unresolved staffing shortages, unfair pay outcomes and broken commitments," Dempsey said. "RMT members have been left with no choice but to take strike action."
Expected Impact on Services
The impact on services is expected to be severe. Reports suggest that most or all CrossCountry services that connect England, Wales, and Scotland via the Birmingham New Street hub are likely to be cancelled on the strike days.
To understand the scale of the disruption, it is important to note that on a normal operating day, CrossCountry carries approximately 100,000 people. The strikes threaten to cause widespread travel havoc during one of the busiest periods of the year.
Company and Union Positions
In response to the announcement, CrossCountry's Managing Director, Shiona Rolfe, voiced her disappointment. She emphasised that the company had worked hard to put forward a fair and reasonable offer and believed meaningful progress had been made in negotiations.
"Our priority remains reaching an agreement that avoids disruption for passengers in the busy Christmas period," Rolfe stated, adding that the company is ready to continue talks at any time.
Despite this, the RMT maintains that the core issues remain unaddressed and is calling for the company to return with a serious offer that treats its members with fairness and respect.
