Manchester Metrolink strikes suspended as workers secure improved pay offer
- Tuesday 21 September 2021
Planned strikes on the Manchester Metrolink tram system this weekend have been suspended after workers received a greatly improved pay offer.
Members of Unite, the UK’s leading union, had overwhelmingly voted for industrial action and strikes were due to take place this weekend (Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September). This would have significantly disrupted spectators attending the Manchester United vs Aston Villa football match and the Great Manchester Run the following day.
Improved pay offer
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “By taking a stand our members have forced management to return to negotiations and table a greatly improved pay offer.
“This demonstrates when Unite is wholly dedicated to advancing jobs, pay and conditions we can get a better deal for our members.”
Following extensive negotiations yesterday (Monday 20 September) between Unite and senior management at Keolis/Amey, which operates Metrolink, a vastly improved pay offer was agreed.
The Unite members at Metrolink will now vote on the offer, which Unite is recommending they accept.
Fresh negotiations
Unite regional officer Dave Roberts said: Unite had been clear from the outset that the previous pay offer was not fit for purpose but if management at Keolis/Amey tabled an acceptable offer, strikes could be avoided.
“The suspension in strike action will allow our members to fully consider the improved pay offer.”
Poor initial offer
The workers had been previously offered a one per cent pay increase spread over a 15 month period, which was in effect a large pay cut in real terms.
ENDS
For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications officer Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235 or 0203 371 2067.
Email: [email protected]
Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.
