COMMUTERS are bracing themselves for further disrupted services this week with a reduced timetable in operation for First Capital Connect services. FCC is running around 50 per cent of its normal timetable because drivers are refusing to do overtime or wo

COMMUTERS are bracing themselves for further disrupted services this week with a reduced timetable in operation for First Capital Connect services.

FCC is running around 50 per cent of its normal timetable because drivers are refusing to do overtime or work on rest days over a pay dispute.

As reported in the Herts Advertiser, passengers were initially kept in the dark over the row, as FCC failed to reveal any dispute was taking place, but were forced to come clean following press coverage.

The problems started when an intensive programme of training began in March to familiarise drivers with new trains coming on stream. Rather than employ more drivers, FCC, relied on its staff to cover with the drivers filling in by working on rest days and offering to do overtime.

But since the workforce found out they were not going to get pay rises, many refused to work extra hours, leaving FCC unable to run a full service.

Union ASLEF has now balloted members for strike action and the result will be known on December 9.

Further updates as they become available.