Island MP Bob Seely has spoken out about the upcoming rail strikes, which will see train services suspended on the Isle of Wight on both Wednesday and Thursday of this week.
As previously reported by Island Echo, Island Line workers have voted unanimously to strike between 00:01 on Wednesday (8th) and 23:59 on Thursday (9th). 80% of local network staff turned out to vote.
The industrial action means no trains will be running between Ryde Pier Head and Shanklin, but bus replacement services will be in operation.
Mr Seely has this week condemned the action…
“I am very disappointed that this strike is taking place. I condemn it. I do not believe it has anything to do with the Island.
“South Western Railway, which runs the Island line, has made it absolutely clear to the RMT many times it will not remove guards from trains. No-one is losing their jobs. Despite this, the union is prepared to walk out for 48 hours on Wednesday and Thursday. This strike is a needless and selfish attempt to disrupt other peoples’ lives.
“This industrial action has nothing to do with rail safety and all to do with opposing the Government while using Islanders as pawns.”
