In a move that could disrupt London’s public transport network, workers on the Overground line have voted to stage a series of three-day strikes in a dispute over pay. The strikes, organised by the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, are planned for 26th February, 26th March, and 23rd April.
The RMT, which represents signalling and telecoms staff employed by contractor Cleshar on behalf of Transport for London (TfL), has criticised the 1.5% pay rise offer as “derisory”. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said the members “have been insulted with such a derisory offer and have no choice but to take strike action.”
TfL has urged both the union and Cleshar to work together to resolve the dispute, acknowledging the potential impact on customers. A TfL spokesperson said, “We are assessing the impact of potential strike action and are putting plans in place to help minimise any disruption for our customers.”
This latest industrial action comes just months after commuters faced a five-day walkout on the London Underground, also organised by the RMT, over pay and conditions.
The Overground network, which connects various parts of the capital, plays a crucial role in London’s public transport infrastructure. The upcoming strikes could cause significant disruption for thousands of passengers who rely on the service to get to work, school, and other destinations.
Both TfL and the RMT have expressed a desire to find a resolution to the dispute, but with the union’s members feeling “insulted” by the pay offer, it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached before the first planned strike in February.
