Final day of strike action train disruptions

Thursday, May 17 will be the final day a number of East Midlands Trains services are disrupted due to strike action.

Members of the local ASLEF branch under East Midlands Trains have been on strike for 6 days over the past three weeks due to changes to the pension scheme.

EMT decided to reduce the amount drivers had to contribute towards their pension by £500 per year, starting July.

However, ASLEF argued that it’s a short-term benefit and could lead to less money being available in the pensions fund.

Local ASLEF members went on strike on May 1,3,8,10,15 and 17, causing a number of delayed, canceled and alternative services.

A meeting was held between the union and EMT last week, but the pair did not come to an arrangement.

Even RMT, a nation transport union, decided to ballot local members to decide if they should also take industrial action against EMT.

EMT is asking employees and ASLEF to help discuss alternative proposals now the planned strikes are over.

According to EMT, ASLEF and RMT have agreed to similar pension arrangements at other train companies without strike action.

David Horne, Managing Director for East Midlands Trains, said: “It’s good news for our passengers that no further unnecessary strike action has been announced by ASLEF.

“Now is the time to sit down and resolve this issue for the benefit of everyone.

“We have always been open to further discussions and last week put forward constructive proposals that would enhance take-home pay for our people and increase their pension benefits.

“If ASLEF show the same commitment, there is no reason why we cannot sort this issue.”

EMT are proposing a reduction of 9.08% from staff contributions rather than 10.5%, and no impact on their final pension.

The company is also encouraging their balloted RMT members not to take action against the company.

David Horne added: “We would urge the unions to work with us to end the dispute for the benefit of everyone – employees, passengers and the company.

“We believe in a strong pension scheme and are committed to protecting the benefits for employees.

“The new contribution rates guarantee that. They also bring the scheme within the reach of more employees and will help encourage a higher participation rate.”

Passengers can see if their service is affected today by visiting the EMT disruptions page on the website.

While over 100 trains are still running in the region, alternative arrangements will be made, or full refunds given.