In an attempt to secure a fair work-life balance, Eurostar rail workers from two unions are taking part in two concurrent periods of strike this month.
Unsociable hours:
RMT and TSSA members will go on strike in a dispute over unsocial hours and duty rosters. RMT members will walk out from 12 to 15 and 27 to 29 August, while TSSA members will walk out on 14 and 15 and 28 and 29 August.
The walkout coincides with the Assumption Day bank holiday in France and Belgium, and the August bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said:
“Our members have every right to have a fair work-life balance that fulfils the operational needs of the company while guaranteeing our members quality time off for friends and family.”
Manuel Cortes, general secretary of the TSSA, said:
“This is a long-standing issue and there is still time to resolve it if common sense prevails… No-one wants to see disruption at holiday times and we will be working for a peaceful solution.”
Failed to honour agreement with staff from 2008:
According to the RMT Eurostar has failed to honour an agreement from 2008 over conditions for their staff, and the union is calling for proposals from Eurostar that guarantees a genuine work-life balance for their members.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling is disappointed that the unions keep calling strike over what appears to be pretty minor matters. The annoucement comes amid strikes by RMT members on Southern and Virgin Trains East Coast.
Eurostar have made small changes to their timetable on the days of the strike to ensure that passengers booked to travel will be able to do so. The company is still in discussions with the RMT over the dispute.
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