RAIL UNION RMT today called off a strike ballot over Olympics payments on key train operator First Great Western after hammering out a new agreement that will ensure that all staff right across the service will secure additional benefits.

The agreement, reached after extensive negotiation with RMT representatives, gives our members a flat rate payment for the Olympic period in addition to enhanced payments for additional services being run by First Great Western and in recognition of the busy periods expected.

This offer is applicable to all members of staff directly employed at First Great Western and gives extra recognition to those members who will be directly affected over the Olympics.

Talks on Greater Anglia have so far failed to produce an acceptable offer with the company maintaining its position of a divisive set of proposals that fail to recognise the vital contribution required from ALL staff on these key Olympics transport routes to delivering a safe and effective service in the face of unprecedented demand. Balloting for action is continuing with results due on the 19th July. RMT remains committed to reaching a negotiated settlement.

On South West Trains balloting is also continuing with results due on the 19th July. The company are maintaining their aggressive stance of no additional offer to reflect the fact that an extra 80,000 passengers will pass through Waterloo with services expanded and extended to run through the early hours of the morning.

RMT General Secretary Bob Crow said:

“The First Great Western deal is a massive breakthrough that fully appreciates the additional pressure on every member of the staff team. It is a tribute to the determination of our members and the negotiating skills of our reps.

“Greater Anglia and South West Trains need to look closely at the details of this agreement, and others on the train operating companies, and recognise that an inclusive rather than a divisive approach works for everyone. They will be making huge additional profits from the games and it is only right that the staff carrying the extra pressure share in that.”