No strikes in Edinburgh after deal reached

There will be relief in Edinburgh following the news that the proposed strikes on the tram system – which hadn’t actually seen the official announcement of any specific dates – will not now go ahead after significant progress was made by union officials and Edinburgh Trams. The strikes had been due to take place in the run-up to Christmas and over the Hogmanay period and were set to be called over claims of bullying and harassment by management.

The past two weeks have seen talks between Edinburgh Trams and officials from Unite the union with an overhaul of the sickness and capability processes agreed. Lyn Turner, Unite regional officer, commented: “An agreement has been reached with the company. Unite is therefore withdrawing the threat of strike action. Our members are satisfied that the company has listened to their concerns and has agreed to change practices which will halt strike action. This is the best outcome possible for all those involved. Edinburgh’s citizens and tourists will be relieved to hear that fruitful talks have led to the withdrawal of strike action. An agreement has been reached through positive consultation and negotiation rather than hard-nosed posturing.”

Lea Harrison, managing director at Edinburgh Trams, added: “We are pleased with the constructive conversations we’ve had with Unite which have allowed us to come to a place of understanding and avoid any industrial action. Safety is our number one priority. We continue to develop our policies and procedures in co-operation with Unite in line with best practice which ensure the safety of both our colleagues and customers. We’re now looking forward to working together over a busy festive season with more trams than ever before including our popular free all-night trams on Hogmanay.”