ScotRail warn of disruption as further Network Rail strikes get under way

Rail passengers have been warned to expect disruption as RMT union members with Network Rail carry out further strike action from Tuesday.

The trade union announced that members would walk out on January 3, 4, 6 and 7 as part of an ongoing dispute over pay, job security and conditions.

While the strike does not involve ScotRail staff, the industrial action will have a knock-on effect for services as Network Rail staff occupy critical safety roles.

The rail provider say a limited service will run in the Central Belt, Fife and the Borders, with no trains running on any other line.

Disruption is expected to continue on January 5, despite no official strike action taking place.

It comes after RMT members took strike action over Christmas which affected ScotRail services, with no trains from early evening on Christmas Eve until December 27.

David Simpson, ScotRail’s service delivery director, said: “It’s really disappointing to see more widespread disruption across the whole Great Britain rail network as a result of the dispute between Network Rail and the RMT at a time when we need to be encouraging more people back to the railway.

“For ScotRail, it’s going to mean that we won’t be able to operate the vast majority of our services between January 3 and 7, which we know will be really frustrating for our customers.

“We’re advising customers to seek alternative means of transport and to only travel if they really need to on the days of strike action.

“Customers should check their journey in advance to make sure your train is running.”

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “The union remains available for talks to resolve this dispute.

“But until the government gives the rail industry a mandate to come to a negotiated settlement on job security, pay and condition of work, our industrial campaign will continue into the new year, if necessary.”