Train company that serves Shropshire agrees pay deal for workers with unions
The overall contract includes a base pay increase of around 4.5 percent, with different parts of the organization subject to different pay models.
TfW is a not-for-profit organization wholly owned by the Welsh Government and operates services in Shropshire and across Wales.
James Price, Managing Director of TfW, said: “We are delighted to have reached an agreement with all our partners in the industry unions – ASLEF, RMT, TSSA and Unite. We continue to work with our unions as we build our social partnership model that benefits everyone.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our partners involved in the negotiations and also to highlight the importance of supporting our workforce during this livelihood crisis.”
Natalie Feeley, TSSA Regional Organizer for the Western Region added: “Having negotiated under sometimes difficult circumstances, TSSA is pleased that we were able to secure a good deal for our members. This is proof of the social partnership approach that we actively live and promote in all our dealings with the company.”
Alan McCarthy, Unite Wales regional coordinating officer, said: “This continues to be a very challenging time for workers and there is no clear sign yet that the cost of living problem is abating. We are pleased that the social partnership approach promoted by unions and TfW has resulted in a negotiated deal that workers felt was fair and voted for.”
Mick Lynch, General Secretary of RMT said: “RMT is very committed to achieving fair terms for all rail workers. TfW’s recognition of RMT’s strong mandate in this area has helped us make good progress. The Welsh Government has clearly shown that rail disputes can be avoided through meaningful negotiation.”
Lee Waters, Welsh Government Deputy Minister for Climate Change and responsible for transport, said: “This is great news and shows how we are doing things differently in Wales and securing a fair wage agreement through progressive social partnership with unions who recognize the value of ours railway workers. We urge the UK Government to follow our example and negotiate a collective agreement with unions in England to avoid further strikes and disruption to passengers and freight.”
Transport for Wales is not involved in the industrial action taking place on Friday and Saturday as the dispute is between the unions and Network Rail.
TfW confirmed that most rail services on the Wales and Borders network will be suspended on 16th and 17th December and 3rd, 4th, 6th and 7th January.
