Talks avert rail strike threat

The train service will not be affected by strike action

A rail union has called off plans to stage a series of walkouts which would have disrupted the journeys of thousands of rail passengers in north Wales.

Members of the Rail Maritime and Transport (RMT) union had voted to hold three 48-hour strikes - starting on Monday - after rejecting a pay offer from train operator First North Western.

RMT leader Bob Crow: Intensive talks

But the industrial action was suspended after an agreement was reached between union bosses and the train company.

Workers negotiated a shorter working week as well as accepting a 3.5% pay rise.

The walkout would have involved 1,000 First North Western staff and would have severely disrupted services.

The row was sparked over a 7% pay increase negotiated by train drivers.

RMT union bosses claimed other rail workers deserved the same but the train operator offered a deal of 3.5%.

A total of 575 RMT members were balloted on taking industrial action.

Our customers will not experience any disruption, particularly as people make their way home after the Commonwealth Games

Vernon Barker, MD for First North Western

The result showed 490 were in favour, while 81 were against a strike and there was one spoilt paper.

Bob Crow, RMT General Secretary, welcomed the deal.

"After intensive talks the company has agreed to bring forward the introduction of a 35-hour week, and our company council recommended unanimously that the revised offer be accepted.

"The deal will reduce the working week by one hour in January and by another hour later in the year, giving most of our members a 35-hour week by next September.

Good deal

"As a result the RMT executive has called off the three 48-hour strikes planned for August," he added.

First North Western managing director, Vernon Barker said both sides were satisfied with the deal.

"I am delighted that we have been able to negotiate an agreement with the RMT.

"It means our customers will not experience any disruption, particularly as people make their way home after the Commonwealth Games.

"I believe the agreement we have made is a good one for the company, our customers and our staff," he added.