London Underground drivers will stage a series of 24-hour strikes in the next few months in a dispute over working hours, the RMT union announced.
Members of the union will walk out at midday on 24 and 26 March, 21 and 23 April 21, as well as 19 and 21 May.
The RMT said its members are taking action because transport bosses are pushing ahead with a plan to compress a normal working week into four days despite the proposals being rejected by a majority of train operators.
The union claimed its members have concerns about shift lengths, working time arrangements, transfer and allocation processes, and the potential impact on fatigue and safety.
The strike dates are as follows:
- 24–25 March (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 26–27 March (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
- 21–22 April (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 23–24 April (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
- 19–20 May (12:00pm Tuesday to 11:59am Wednesday)
- 21–22 May (12:00pm Thursday to 11:59am Friday)
Eddie Dempsey, RMT general secretary, said: “London Underground is trying to force through major changes to working patterns that have already been rejected by our members.
“We are clear that these proposals raise serious concerns around fatigue, safety and work-life balance.
“Despite our best efforts over many months, no satisfactory outcome has been reached so we have no choice but to call strike dates.
“There is still time for London Underground to come up with a workable solution but we will take strike action if we cannot get a negotiated settlement.”
TFL has been approached for comment.
This is a breaking news story. More follows.
