The train company maintains the trains in question underwent thorough examinations before being introduced to the network.
East Midlands Railway is confronting industrial action (Image: Joseph Raynor/Nottingham Post)
Industrial action targeting East Midlands Railway services is proceeding following union allegations that a group of trains is experiencing operational problems.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) maintains the Class 810 Aurora fleet of trains commenced operations only after completing stringent assessments, yet the RMT union reports the trains are experiencing difficulties including breakdowns in contact between locomotive operators, station staff and wayside equipment.
One of the East Midlands Railway units involved in the serious crash at Bedford on June 19, which resulted in the death of driver Shaun Burton and injuries to more than 150 individuals, belonged to the 810 series.
The RMT indicated earlier in July that industrial action could be initiated and the union has now verified strikes on Saturday, as well as additional 24-hour stoppages on August 8 and August 15.
The announcement of industrial action follows confirmation that EMR’s managing director, Will Rogers, would be departing the organisation.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey stated that despite multiple efforts to settle the disagreement through negotiation, EMR declined to withdraw the 810s from operation, meaning the strikes will proceed, while the union remains open to additional discussions.
Philippa Cresswell, the customer experience director at East Midlands Railway, stated that the company apologises to passengers whose travel plans will be disrupted by this industrial action.
She explained that the company acknowledges the significant inconvenience this will create and is urging passengers to travel only when absolutely necessary on August 1, 8 and 15, as a substantially limited service will operate between 7am and 7pm.
East Midlands Railway continues to participate in productive talks with the RMT with the aim of resolving this disagreement as swiftly as possible.
The disagreement centres on worries expressed about the introduction of the new Class 810 Aurora fleet. Any claim that the trains fail to satisfy mandatory safety requirements is inaccurate.
The Class 810 fleet began carrying passengers only after fully satisfying all mandatory testing protocols and fulfilling the strict safety criteria set by the independent regulatory body.