RAIL passengers face transport chaos over the festive season with drivers and conductors in revolt against Central Trains bosses. Last Sunday, the cross-city network was at a standstill with no Central Trains running into New Street and Snow Hill because there were not enough volunteer drivers to operate services. Now the Birmingham Mail has learned that the company is at loggerheads with both drivers' union Aslef and the RMT, representing conductors. And two one-day strikes, which would cripple the network, are looming on December 27 and January 2, with the RMT balloting 580 conductors to walk-out. Drivers are already annoyed at working practices which could mean fewer staff working on key routes. This dispute led to virtually no drivers volunteering for duty last Sunday, as such shifts are voluntary and not part of contracted working hours. This problem is likely to hit travellers again on New Year's Day with a reduced Sunday service, as Central is not offering extra pay for drivers. Meanwhile, conductors also want more cash for working bank holidays, as they currently only get a day off in lieu. It's the same row as last Christmas, when strikes hit services. Mick Whelan, from Aslef, said: "We gave the company four weeks for talks. We have no control over Sunday working and it is up to the drivers if they volunteer." Dave Jones, from the RMT said: "We told Central Trains in the spring, summer and in September that they should talk to us about this problem. They started negotiations in December. "In any other job if you work a bank holiday like Christmas Day, or New Year's Day you get extra incentives. Our conductors just get a day off in lieu." A spokesman for Central Trains said: "It is a complex issue with Aslef about guarantees of work around New Street with the franchise change coming up. "It's disappointing that the RMT is balloting for strike action, and negotiations are ongoing." * What do you think of the prospect of festive rail strikes? Tell us your views at www.icbirmingham.co.uk/mail/yoursay | 
