Train drivers on London's Elizabeth Line, represented by the Aslef union, are set to strike over a pay dispute with employer MTR. Nearly 500 drivers will participate in multiple walkouts after a ballot showed overwhelming support for industrial action. Union leaders argue drivers' contributions have not been adequately recognized by MTR. Despite MTR's claims of offering a competitive 4.5% pay rise, union officials believe the company's stance is influenced by losing the contract to operate the line. The Transport for London spokesperson urges both sides to resolve the issue to minimize passenger inconvenience.
Our members have been instrumental in the success of the Elizabeth line but, despite our best efforts, MTR has decided not to recognise the input, the importance, and the value of train drivers in this success.
Taking action is always a last resort, because we do not want to inconvenience passengers and our members do not want to lose money, and I hope that the company, seeing the strength of feeling amongst our members, will do the right thing.
I suspect that the company's intransigence is because it has lost the contract with Transport for London (TfL) to run the Elizabeth line. If that is indeed the case, it is very disappointing to see the company behave this way.
The offer would have maintained some of the highest salaries in the industry, along with enhanced terms and conditions. We remain committed to engaging with Aslef in the hope of resolving this dispute.
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