Trams: striking for safety

Greater Manchester’s tram drivers are taking strike action in the run up to Christmas to improve working conditions and safety. Earlier strike dates were called off while considering the employer’s response, but it wasn’t acceptable.

Drivers are required to work up to 450 hours over a 12-week period. This has led to some of them working six days or for 50 hours without a rest day.

Fear

In 2024 there were 51 collisions between trams and other road vehicles in Greater Manchester, almost one a week. The drivers fear for their safety and the safety of their passengers.

The union has repeatedly attempted to raise the issue with management without positive response. Unite balloted the 320 drivers and they voted for strike action.

Manchester’s Metrolink is the largest tram system in Britain. The drivers’ union, Unite, says its drivers have the worst conditions.

Urgent issue

The employer KeolisAmey Metrolink Ltd responded in early December with proposals to improve conditions within two years. Action was postponed while considering that offer. Drivers voted overwhelmingly to reject it; they feel the issue needs tackling more urgently.

The dates for strike action are 19, 20 and 31 December. The first two days coincide with ongoing strike action by Greater Manchester Transport ticketing and support staff. Unite and Unison members are fighting for an increase to their 3.2 per cent pay offer.