Passengers across Britain are bracing for significant travel disruption this festive season after rail workers for the CrossCountry train operator announced a series of strikes throughout December.
Strike Dates and Core Issues
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has confirmed that its members at CrossCountry will take industrial action on Friday 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th of December. This walkout is a direct result of long-running disputes concerning pay and severe staffing shortages.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey expressed deep frustration with the company's approach to negotiations. He stated that CrossCountry had failed to address the fundamental problems and had even presented a proposal that was inferior to previous offers.
"Our members are still facing unresolved staffing shortages, unfair pay outcomes and broken commitments," Mr Dempsey said. He emphasised that this left the union's members with no alternative but to proceed with strike action.
Widespread Impact on Festive Travel
The Birmingham-based rail operator provides vital connections to many of the UK's major cities. The strikes are expected to severely impact services to and from:
- Manchester
- Leeds and Sheffield
- Nottingham
- Newcastle
- Cardiff
- Edinburgh
This means thousands of people planning to travel to visit family and friends during the crucial festive period are likely to see their journeys cancelled or severely disrupted.
Company and Union Responses
In response to the announcement, CrossCountry's managing director, Shiona Rolfe, said the company was disappointed for its customers. She asserted that they had worked hard to create a fair and reasonable offer that tackled the key issues raised in the dispute.
"We've made meaningful progress in negotiations," Ms Rolfe stated, adding that their priority remains reaching an agreement that prevents disruption for passengers during the busy Christmas period. The company has confirmed it is ready to continue talks at any time.
However, the RMT has called for the company to return to the negotiating table with a serious offer that honours its previous commitments and treats workers with the fairness and respect they deserve.
