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Often, when the tube is engulfed in strikes, Londoners can still turn to the Overground to get them to where they need to be. But from next month, it’s an Overground line’s turn to be impacted by industrial action.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) has announced that signallers and telecom staff working on the London Overground will walk out on three separate occasions between February and April. It says that the action is over a pay and conditions dispute with a TfL subcontractor.
RMT may reach an agreement with the subcontractor before the strikes roll around, meaning they could be called off. But if you’re an Overground frequenter, here’s everything you need to know about the planned industrial action.
When will London Overground staff go on strike?
The strikes are planned for three Thursdays across the next three months. Each strike will last 24 hours and they may also have an impact on services the following Friday mornings.
- Thursday February 26
- Thursday March 26
- Thursday April 23
Which lines will be affected?
The only Overground line that will see disruption due to the strikes will be the Windrush line, which runs from Highbury and Islington to Clapham Junction, West Croydon and Crystal Palace.
Why are Overground staff striking?
The signalling and telecoms staff work for subcontractor Cleshar CS Ltd. They’re taking industrial action over below inflation rate pay rise (of 1.5 percent), overtime and annual leave pay and unsatisfactory terms and conditions compared to the previous contractor.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: ‘Our members have been insulted with such a derisory offer and have no choice but to take strike action. This company is highly profitable and can afford a decent offer for these safety-critical workers.
‘Strike action would be disruptive and our members do not want to inconvenience passengers. But the company has a duty to pay our people properly and we will continue our campaign until we reach a negotiated settlement.’
What is TfL saying?
A Transport for London spokesperson said: ‘We urge the RMT and Cleshar CS Ltd to work together to resolve this dispute over pay and conditions. We are assessing the impact of potential strike action and are putting plans in place to help minimise any disruption for our customers.’
Are there strikes planned for the London Underground?
There’s no industrial action lined up for the London Underground, so Windrush passengers will be able to use the tube on strike days to get to their destination.
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