Why are train drivers going on strike?
Why are train drivers going on strike? Why are rail workers striking? Unions say they want a pay offer reflecting the rising cost of living. But the rail industry is under pressure to save money, after the pandemic left a hole in its finances. The industry says changes to ways of working need to be agreed in order for pay to go up.
Can I still travel during a train strike?
Most importantly, know that it is possible to travel on strike days. Trains run on some routes, and your rights to compensation and help in the event of disruption aren't any different. If there's a train scheduled to run, go ahead and catch it!
Why is there a rail crisis?
Trade associations, including those for the grain and chemicals industries, say one underlying cause of the rail crisis is a lack of competition. The number of major freight railroads has shrunk over the years, and in some areas, customers are captive to a single line.
Why are train drivers striking?
Why are rail workers striking? Unions say they want a pay offer reflecting the rising cost of living. But the rail industry is under pressure to save money, after the pandemic left a hole in its finances. The industry says changes to ways of working need to be agreed in order for pay to go up.
How much do train drivers earn?
As of Nov 6, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Train Driver in the United States is $17.76 an hour. While ZipRecruiter is seeing hourly wages as high as $28.61 and as low as $8.65, the majority of Train Driver wages currently range between $14.18 (25th percentile) to $19.23 (75th percentile) across the United States.
Are rail strikes planned for May 2023?
4 May 2023 A number of strikes on the national rail networks have been announced on dates in May and June 2023. Please keep an eye on the news and be aware that your travel may be disrupted. Rail workers are due to strike on Friday 12 May, Saturday 13 May, Wednesday 31 May and Saturday 3 June.
Are there any train strikes in June 2023?
A separate strike by the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) will take place on Friday 2 June 2023. The widespread disruption will see 20,000 railway workers in catering, train managers and station staff all take action as passengers face more travel chaos from three strikes in just four days.
Why do rail workers not get sick days?
For years, freight rail workers weren't allowed to call in sick the morning of their shift. They could, however, get approval weeks in advance to take paid personal days. CSX was the first to grant paid sick days to several of its unions and has now granted sick days to 61% of its 17,089 unionized employees.
Why are train drivers striking 2023?
RMT (the Rail, Maritime and Transport union) and ASLEF (The Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen) members are striking in an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions.
What is the problem with a rail strike?
It wouldn't take long for the effects of a rail strike to trickle through the economy. Many businesses have only a few days' worth of raw materials and space for finished goods. Makers of food, fuel, cars and chemicals would all feel the squeeze, as would their customers.