ScotRail disruption to continue after late strikes call off

Normal service on ScotRail services will resume next week after planned strike action was suspended, the rail operator has confirmed.

It comes after strike days on November 7 and November 9 were called off to allow for further pay negotiations to take place.

The action would have involved RMT trade union members of Network Rail.

ScotRail has said it is working with Network Rail to ensure routes are ready for services to operate “as soon as possible”.

However, the operator stated it has been advised by the organisation that it will not be possible to operate all routes until Tuesday.

A limited timetable will be operated by ScotRail on Monday, November 7.

Passengers are being advised to only travel if they have to.

David Simpson, ScotRail service delivery director, urged those planning to travel to check their journey in advance.

“ScotRail welcomes the announcement that planned strike action on November 7 and November 9 by RMT members at Network Rail has been suspended,” he said.

“Strike action does nothing for the railway’s recovery or reputation at this fragile time. It impacts customers, staff and the economy.

“We’re working hard to restore a normal timetable for Tuesday, November 8, to deliver a service our customers expect and deserve.

“A very limited service will operate on Monday, November 7. We’d encourage anyone planning to travel by rail over the next few days to check their entire journey before travel on our website or social media channels.”

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland route director, outlined the work ongoing to reintroduce services.

He said: “While it is positive news that the RMT has called off these strikes, the very late notice means that it is not possible to reintroduce a full timetable on Saturday and Monday.

“We are working hard alongside ScotRail and our other operators to reintroduce services as quickly as possible for customers.

“We remain committed to working positively with our trades unions to find a resolution to this dispute.”

Scottish Conservative transport spokesman Graham Simpson said the continuation of disruption “simply isn’t good enough” from ScotRail.

“Passengers cannot keep being messed around in this way,” he said.

“They would have rightly expected services to return to normal when strike action was called off, but will face a strike-level service in all but name until Tuesday.

“On top of that, the militant RMT are still holding the country to ransom with their threats of strikes which could ruin Christmas plans for many.

“This simply isn’t good enough from ScotRail either. They should have been far quicker at adapting to this situation and ensured passengers could enjoy a full level of service again.”