Breakdown in talks over ScotRail workers' pay
- Published
It is thought that RMT members could now be balloted over possible strike action
Pay talks between ScotRail and transport union representatives have broken down.
Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) rejected a 5% pay offer from the company last Thursday.
The offer was similar to a deal accepted by train drivers in July, ending a dispute where 700 services were cancelled for almost two months.
It is now thought that RMT members will be balloted on possible strike action.
RMT members, who include ticket examiners, conductors and station staff, voted against the ScotRail deal by 60% to 40%.
ScotRail said it had tabled a further improved offer of a £300 payment for full-time staff and pro-rata for part-time staff "as recognition of the need to use technology like mobile devices and upgraded ticket printing machines".
It said this was on the table for the RMT to put to its members but as the RMT had rejected it then the £300 would no longer form part of the offer.
'Nowhere near'
Michael Hogg, Scotland organiser at the RMT, said: "The talks broke down because the improved offer that was made by ScotRail does not meet our members' aspirations. It comes nowhere near in the cost of living crisis.
"It was made absolutely crystal clear to ScotRail that failure to make an acceptable offer would lead to a ballot for industrial action."
Phil Campbell, ScotRail head of customer operations, said: "We met with RMT representatives to discuss the next steps as we seek to resolve this dispute. It is very disappointing that the RMT may hold a ballot for industrial action, despite ScotRail making a further improved offer.
"The offer made to our staff is a strong one and recognises the cost of living challenges faced by families across the country as well as delivering good value for the taxpayer. "
'Negative impacts' for passengers
Transport Scotland described last week's ballot result as disappointing, saying the offer was "fair and affordable".
A spokesperson said continued strike action would have "negative impacts" on passengers and would require timetable changes and cancellations of services.
Last month, Aslef drivers accepted a similar deal, which meant they will get more money for rest days and Sunday working, driving instructor and maternity pay, along with a policy of no compulsory redundancies for the next five years.
ScotRail came back into public ownership for the first time in 25 years in April, after previous operator Abellio had its franchise ended early over criticism of the quality of the service.
A full rail timetable was only recently brought back.