Network Rail holds back bonus from strikers

The RMT transport union has reacted angrily to reports that Network Rail is withholding annual bonuses from workers who took part in strikes during a dispute that was settled in March this year. Around 20,000 RMT members are expected to lose out on a bonus of £300 as a result.

The Guardian newspaper reported a Network Rail spokesperson as confirming the move, and stating: “We have been crystal clear with both our trade unions and our employees that the cost of strike action would directly impact the PRP [performance-related pay] scheme. Our position was made very clear: any discretionary payments would focus on those who continued to support rail services during industrial action.”

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch responded: “The decision to exclude trade unionists from this bonus scheme is disgraceful and is understandably causing significant consternation among members.

“It is clear that the stance adopted by Network Rail both penalises and discriminates against members for exercising their human right to associate and to participate in lawful trade union activities. However, legal protections only exist for those who are unfairly dismissed for taking part in lawful strike or other industrial action which is called officially.”