Rail workers in Britain are poised to vote on a potential pay deal that could alleviate more than a year of walkouts on the beleaguered train network, according to a statement from the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union on Wednesday.

Members of the RMT union are set to cast their votes on an agreement negotiated with the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), the representative body for train operating companies. If accepted, this proposed deal could put a pause on industrial action in December and extend into early next year, allowing room for additional discussions on reforms.

RMT boss Mick Lynch expressed optimism about the potential resolution, stating, “This is a welcome development.” The proposed agreement reportedly encompasses a backdated 2022 pay rise for staff and provides assurances regarding job security.

The RMT has been embroiled in a dispute with 14 train operating companies, focusing on issues such as salary and working conditions, including concerns related to overtime.

Frequent strikes by rail staff have led to widespread service cancellations, causing inconvenience and frustration for travelers relying on the train network.

The ongoing industrial action aligns with a broader trend across public and private sectors in Britain, where workers are pushing for pay raises in response to decades-high inflation and the profound cost-of-living crisis, marking one of the most challenging economic periods in a generation

Over the past 18 months, workers from various sectors, including health, education, legal, and transportation, have taken to picket lines, showcasing a collective demand for improved compensation amid the prevailing economic uncertainties.