RAIL union RMT accused Carlisle Support Services of shutting down negotiations as outsourced members contracted to the firm for Northern Trains took strike action today. 

Staff working on revenue protection and at ticket barriers staged a mass picket in Manchester in the morning as they walked out over pay.

RMT says that the union has been “effectively locked” out of talks aimed at resolving the dispute and said that in an “unacceptable move,” the firm has been citing financial pressures as a reason for why pay improvements must be linked to productivity.

The union’s general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Carlisle bosses have shown a shocking level of contempt for the negotiation process with RMT.

“They have walked away from their responsibilities, refusing reasonable dialogue and have shown disdain for those they employ.

“Our members cannot be intimidated or cajoled into accepting poverty pay and appalling treatment by any employer.”

Carlisle Support Services was contacted for comment.