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Network Rail’s decision to deny bonuses to employees who participated in strike actions has caused outrage among its workforce. The management of the state-owned rail network operator and the RMT union engaged in a prolonged dispute over pay and reform plans, resulting in 20,000 union members staging walkouts over an eight-month period.
The conflict concluded in March with RMT members accepting a 9% pay increase, alongside major working practice reforms. However, RMT’s general secretary, Mick Lynch, informed members that Network Rail management decided not to provide an annual performance-related bonus to those who participated in the strikes. This decision has caused significant consternation among employees.
The bonus, which has historically amounted to approximately £1,000, is expected to be £300 this year due to the strikes’ impact on the company’s performance. Network Rail defended its decision, stating that it had explicitly informed employees that they would not receive bonuses if they participated in strike actions. David Hopper, a partner at Lewis Silkin, cautioned that the company’s stance may invite human rights claims if employees who participated in strikes are treated worse than their peers.
The RMT’s assistant general secretary, Eddie Dempsey, criticized the decision, emphasizing that it has further strained relations ahead of upcoming talks regarding 2024 pay. Additionally, an online petition on Organise, a platform for collective action, has garnered 12,000 signatures calling for Network Rail workers to receive their bonuses.
Roxana Khan-Williams, head of campaigns at Organise, viewed the decision as an attempt to discourage workers from exercising their right to strike. She expressed hope that Network Rail will rectify the situation by granting bonuses to all employees without discrimination.
The RMT continues to be engaged in a prolonged dispute with train companies, resulting in widespread disruptions. Further strike actions are planned for Saturday, September 2.
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