Image source here.
The threat of strikes over the weekend of The Open golf championships forced concessions on pay from Merseyrail.
Workers rejected an initial 4% pay rise, and announced strikes for 18-20 July. The bosses quickly returned to the table with a new offer, proposing a 7.25% backdated pay increase covering January 2026 to January 2028. The new offer also included a flat-rate minimum for lower-paid grades such as station assistant and on-board cleaners, as well as slight increases to the pay enhancement for Sunday working.
The settlement isn't perfect, but it's an improvement. It would not have been won without threatening strikes. With Merseyrail now coming into public ownership, workers can prepare to push for further improvements in the next pay round, from January onwards.
Comments?We welcome replies, corrections and debate pieces. Contact us