Transport union RMT has announced strike action on London Underground over the introduction of a compressed four-day working week on tube drivers.
The group claims that London Underground bosses are pushing ahead with a plan to compress a normal working week into four days despite the proposals being rejected by a majority of Train Operators in e-referendums.
The union notes that its members have concerns about shift lengths, unacceptable working time arrangements, transfer and allocation processes, and the potential impact on fatigue and safety.
It added that union representatives have attempted to resolve the situation over several months but the London Underground have refused to negotiate, pushing ahead with the unpopular plan without an agreement with RMT.
The strike dates are as follows:
- 24–25 March (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 26–27 March (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
- 21–22 April (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 23–24 April (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
- 19–20 May (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 21–22 May (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
In addition, members have been instructed not to use any company-issued electronic devices, including iPads, from 21 March until further notice.
“London Underground is trying to force through major changes to working patterns that have already been rejected by our members. We are clear that these proposals raise serious concerns around fatigue, safety and work-life balance,” said Eddie Dempsey, RMT General Secretary.
“Despite our best efforts over many months, no satisfactory outcome has been reached so we have no choice but to call strike dates. There is still time for London Underground to come up with a workable solution but we will take strike action if we cannot get a negotiated settlement.”
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