Scotrail strikes that could have sparked Christmas chaos have been suspended after the company put forward an increased pay offer to staff.
RMT Union members will now vote on whether to accept the improved offer.
Workers had threatened Scotrail with Christmas chaos, with strikes planned every Friday and Saturday in December.
ScotRail met with RMT representatives on Wednesday to discuss the ongoing pay dispute. Following a meeting of the RMT’s National Executive Committee today, ScotRail has reached agreement that its pay offer will be put to RMT members through a referendum.
This agreement to conduct a referendum means that the RMT’s overtime ban and all proposed strike action will be suspended pending the outcome of the vote.
ScotRail said its further improved offer includes an increase from £500 to £750 for acceptance of technology consolidated into basic pay, on top of the five per cent basic increase.
This is in return for the acceptance of current technology, such as mobile devices for checking and selling tickets, using passenger assistance app. This would mean an average pay increase of 7.5 per cent for general grades, which includes roles such as conductors, ticket examiners, and station staff. Salaries for lower paid staff would increase by more than 8.5 per cent.
Phil Campbell, ScotRail Head of Customer Operations, said: “We’re pleased to have reached agreement with the RMT so that our staff will have a say on our very strong pay offer. If accepted, this will deliver an average 7.5 per cent basic pay increase, job security for at least six years, and increases allowances in commission payments.
“We encourage RMT members to vote for this offer so that they can receive a well-earned pay rise and everyone at ScotRail can focus on delivering for customers across the country.”
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