Potential Chaos as Unite the Union Ballots its Metrolink Members

Unite the Union has announced that it will ballot its members who drive for Metrolink in Manchester. If successful, it would see the drivers strike just as the busy Christmas Shopping rush starts.

The union claim that the drivers are working 450 hours over a 12-week period, whilst having fewer rest days when compared to other operational departments. According to Unite, this is causing safety concerns around fatigue.

The Unite regional officer Colin Hayden said “strike action will cause a great deal of disruption but it is entirely the fault of Metrolink”

If the ballot is successful, action would begin in late November and would disrupt the majority of the tram network. It would also disrupt the Manchester Christmas Markets, which begin on the 7th November and is taking place across the city.  

KeolisAmey Metrolink Limited operate the Metrolink for Transport for Greater Manchester. Both KeolisAmey and Transport for Greater Manchester are aware of the ballot. Damien Chabas, KeolisAmey’s Managing Director, said in a statement, “Driver welfare and managing fatigue are key priorities for us.” He added “our rosters already align with safety standards.” The managing director for Transport for Greater Manchester, Danny Vaughan, said: “We are meeting with both KAM and Unite this week to understand the issue and any concerns in more detail and are keen to work with both parties to resolve the issue without causing disruption for passengers.”

Currently, there is no disruption planned to the Metrolink services. We will update this article with the result of the ballot and if any issues should be expected.

(Image Credit- TFGM)