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NHS workers, teachers and binmen could join railway workers in national strike
‘Teachers have had enough of a government which simply does not value them’
NHS staff, teachers and binmen could join railway workers on strike in an ongoing dispute with pay.
Strikes not seen since the 1970s could grind the country to a halt this summer, as thousands of workers across various sectors are set to walk out in protest of inadequate pay rises.
Members of the RMT (Rail, Maritime and Transport) union at Network Rail and thirteen train operators will strike this week on June 21st, 23rd and 25th to protest job cuts and below-inflation pay rises.
In total, it is estimated that around 40,000 union members will be taking part in the rail strike, making it the largest of its kind in modern history.
And now, those who work in education are also said to be considering strike action, with the National Education Union’s Mary Bousted saying teachers have had enough of a government which ‘simply does not value them’.
Bousted said: “The case for a better deal for teachers will be set out in full this Wednesday in our letter to the Secretary of State.
Read More: Greater Manchester bus staff ballot for strike action amid pay dispute
“If it should fall on deaf ears, and teachers are offered a pay rise significantly below inflation, we will proceed to an indicative ballot of members. Teachers have had enough of a government which simply does not value them.”
The National Education Union (NEU) has said it is preparing to hold a ballot of its 450,000 members, which could lead to strikes in schools across the country.
Hospitals could also face turmoil as healthcare unions Unison, the British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing are considering action.
The general secretary of Unison, the biggest union representing NHS staff, said: “The government has a simple choice; either it makes a sensible pay award, investing in staff and services and reducing delays for patients.
“Or it risks a potential dispute, growing workforce shortages and increased suffering for the sick.”
In addition to this, postal workers, refuse collectors (binmen) and lawyers have all either staged, or are considering, strikes.