SoR President-Elect Ross McGhee today pledged his support for rail workers as they embarked on the first of a series of one day strikes called by the RMT union to oppose job cuts and in support of a 7% pay claim made in the face of spiralling inflation
Writing on Twitter, Ross said: "Solidarity today to my comrades in @RMTunion. We as a public and service users must help to put pressure on govt to achieve these aims. It is not a race to the bottom. We are stronger as a movement together."
His support comes as many predict that the RMT strikes will be followed by industrial action across the public sector as wages become increasingly eroded by inflation and cost of living increases place huge financial strain on workers.
The Society’s position is that a substantial pay rise above the rate of inflation is needed for clinical imaging, radiotherapy and other healthcare staff working in the NHS and has launched a campaign to back its claim.
While the Bank of England warns that inflation is expected to top 11% this year, the government is proposing a mere 3% pay increase for NHS staff, potentially paving the way for significant confict with health unions.