United Kingdom: RMT union plans 24-hour strike May 30

Event

On Tuesday, May 16, the Rail, Maritime, and Transport (RMT) union announced that workers from three rail companies are planning to hold a 24-hour strike on Tuesday, May 30. Workers from Southern Railway, Merseyrail, and Northern Rail will participate in the strike. If the work stoppage goes ahead as planned, significant transportation disruptions, increased road congestion, and crowded conditions on available public transit is to be expected.

Context

RMT announced their decision to strike after talks ended on Monday, May 15. According to RMT officials, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which owns Southern, intends to run more than 8000 trains a year without a second crew member. The union argues that the lack of a second crew member compromises passenger safety and access for people with disabilities.

Southern serves the London region, Northern the north of England, and Merseyside northwest England. A number of strikes at Southern Railway have already taken place in recent weeks and months and have resulted in major disruptions. RMT opposes plans to expand driver-only operations on Southern services. Northern Railway and Merseyside Railway are now joining the strikes due to similar plans announced by their executives.

Advice

Travelers are advised to monitor the situation, plan alternate routes, and to allow for extra time to reach their destinations for the duration of the strike.