WORKERS at rail operator Eurostar are to be balloted for strike action in the next few weeks over a safety and conditions dispute.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) says its members are facing increasing pressure because of worsening working conditions, with unreliable trains and poor service recovery.

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Eurostar is making billions in revenue, but front-line staff are being left to deal with unsafe conditions and the consequences of poor management decisions.

“Eurostar is prioritising the bottom line ahead of our members’ concerns around investment in safety and good conditions at work.

“If Eurostar does not change course, strike action cannot be ruled out.”

A spokesperson for the company said: “The safety of our team members and customers is our absolute priority and we continue to discuss the matter with RMT to resolve their concerns. No strike action is confirmed at this stage.”