More misery could be on the cards for Dumfries and Galloway rail passengers

Extra distress may very well be on the playing cards for rail passengers.

Members of the Nationwide Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Staff (RMT) have rejected the provide of a 5 per cent pay rise from ScotRail.

And if a greater deal isn’t forthcoming, members – corresponding to conductors and station workers – might strike.

RMT basic secretary Mick Lynch mentioned: “Our members have spoken and ScotRail should provide you with an improved package deal.

“We'll now search an pressing assembly with the corporate.

“If no improved provide is forthcoming then we'll poll our ScotRail members for strike motion.”

The most recent provide from ScotRail – which 60 per cent of RMT members who voted opted to reject – was much like that accepted by prepare drivers union ASLEF final month.

That dropped at an finish a dispute that had pressured ScotRail to introduce a lowered, non permanent timetable after ASLEF members pulled out of additional time and relaxation day working.

ScotRail’s head of buyer operations Phil Campbell mentioned: “It's extremely disappointing that RMT members have voted towards this provide.

“The provide made to basic grade workers is a robust one and recognises the cost-of-living challenges confronted by households throughout the nation in addition to delivering good worth for the general public.

“The deal on provide recognises the arduous work of workers whereas acutely aware of the monetary challenges confronted by the railway as we glance to recuperate from the pandemic.

“All of us need to have a dependable, environment friendly and sustainable railway that helps the financial system and connects communities throughout the nation. This provide could be a major step in direction of delivering that.”

RMT members are additionally planning strike motion on August 18 and 20 in a separate dispute with Community Rail.

Though ScotRail just isn't one of many 13 prepare operators concerned within the dispute, companies can be hit as Community Rail is answerable for prepare strains and infrastructure.

Earlier RMT strike motion has seen no ScotRail or TransPennine Specific companies stopping in Dumfries and Galloway with solely a handful of Avanti West Coast companies calling at Lockerbie.