TRNSMT subway strikes called off as "interim deal" reached with SPT
Three days of planned industrial action on Glasgow's subway have been cancelled, with the service set to run as normal
TRNSMT festival goers this weekend will be able to travel to Glasgow Green by subway, as planned strike action has been called off by Unite workers.
The union says they have reached an “interim deal” with operator Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), ending scheduled strikes on Friday 11, Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July.
Industrial officer for Unite Andrew Brown said: “We now have a route to a lasting agreement on the subway system and we are pleased that SPT meaningfully engaged with the union to bring the strike action to an end.”
Meanwhile, Unite’s general secretary Sharon Graham has praised members, saying: “Unite’s members should be applauded for remaining strong and taking the brave stance of industrial action to get a better deal from SPT.
“Pay and allowances have all been significantly improved alongside a commitment by SPT to address the future working conditions of Glasgow’s subway system.”
The offer, made by SPT on Tuesday, has been backed by Unite members, after a previous offer was overwhelmingly rejected, and would see an increase in basic pay, allowances, sick pay, and overtime rates.
It also comes with a commitment from SPT to carry out further negotiations over the future terms and conditions of workers “in line with the subway modernisation plan”.
Unite estimates the cost of the interim deal to SPT to be around £245,000 per annum, in addition to the 4% COSLA pay award.
A spokesperson for SPT said: “Following constructive negotiations and collaborative working with Unite the Union, SPT can confirm that an agreement has been reached that will end the proposed industrial strike action planned for this weekend (11,12,and 13 July).
“We are pleased that working together we have found a solution and way forward which is good news for our customers.
“We know how important the Subway is to the public transport network in Glasgow and services will now be running over this busy weekend for the city.”
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