Train drivers call off strike
A train drivers union has called off strike action due for Monday that threatened to cause “utter chaos” on the rail network.
Up to 5,000 members of rail union Aslef were planning to take industrial action over safety fears regarding a new communications system.
A meeting between Network Rail, the Association of Train Operating Companies and the Rail Safety and Standards Board has now resulted in a settlement, Aslef said.
The union was concerned about the interim voice radio system’s (IVRS) inability to allow drivers to warn each other about problems on the network.
Its decision to strike followed a breakdown in talks with Network Rail that have been in progress for two years.
Keith Norman, general secretary of Aslef, said previously: “We will not be party to putting lives at risk.”
Operators that would have been affected by the strike include Virgin, West Coast, Cross Country, Silverlink, Central Trains, Arriva trains Wales, Southern Trains and several freight operators.
