Credit: Paul Low
Ongoing strikes and work to rule by train drivers looks set to end after workers accepted a new ScotRail pay offer, but Borders rail passengers will not notice an immediate improvement.
The Edinburgh to Tweedbank line has been hit alongside many across Scotland this summer with a reduced service due to a shortage of drivers. This has been linked to drivers refusing to work extra shifts on Sundays and overtime, while pay talks were ongoing. Strike action was threatened for the autumn.
However, the train drivers’ union ASLEF confirmed on Monday (26 August) that it was withdrawing its call for industrial action after the latest round of talks. Jim Baxter, ASLEF executive committee member, stated: “Our ballot for industrial action has now been withdrawn and a referendum of our members, on the offer, will now be held. The negotiating team and executive committee are recommending that members accept this offer.”
”The negotiating team and executive committee are recommending that members accept this offer.
Jim BaxterASLEF executive committee member
About 600 services were cut under the provisional measures, leaving 1,660 trains operating between Mondays and Saturdays. While ASLEF await a final decision from rail workers, the emergency timetable with a reduced number of services will continue.
