WORKERS at First Capital Connect may come out on strike in December. 

Nearly 600 workers will be balloted on strike action.  The result will be known on 9 December.  And industrial action could start a week later – severely disrupting the build up to Christmas.

The main sticking point for workers is pay – or lack of it.  Like many other companies, First Capital Connect is offering a zero pay increase for the period from April 2009 – March 2010.  From April 2010 it has offered a three per cent pay rise - or one per cent over inflation if that is more.  A lump sum payment of £200 is also on the table.

Workers also have concerns about the breakdown in industrial relations.

Interestingly, last year the company was awarded the Evening Standard's 'award' for the company which combined the worst service and the biggest profits.

First Capital Connect have followed the lead of other companies who have used the recession as an excuse to freeze pay.  A company spokesman stated:  

"We have made what we believe to be a fair offer given the current economic climate and unprecedented duration of the recession."

Solidarity Trade Union understands that First Capital Connect earns around £100 million from its rail arm.  Surely some of this could be put towards paying those workers who help them generate such vast revenue?