By Tom Barton

23 Aug, 2002

Page 15

COMMUTERS in North Wales could face train disruption on Tuesday if train drivers union Aslef and First North Western fail to reach a deal over the bank holiday weekend.

Although both sides of the dispute said last night they were keen to reach an agreement, they have yet to sit down in what the company termed 'constructive talks.'

The walk-out is planned to follow last week's strike over pay.

'We are committed to reaching an agreement with Aslef as soon as possible and ideally that would mean before the next set of strikes,' said FNW's managing director, Vernon Barker.

He added: 'There is still time to reach an agreement before Tuesday and we remain available at all times for talks and hope that Aslef will respond in the same manner.

'We again appeal to Aslef to take part in constructive talks as it is clear that the people to miss out the most in any strike action are the passengers.

'The rail industry needs a period of stability to enhance passenger confidence and the uncertainty being cast by the threat of industrial action is undermining all the hard work being put into the industry.'

An Aslef spokesman said: 'The strike is still set to go ahead.

'There is no solution yet, and we've got no reason to be desperately hopeful.

'Obviously there is time and we do want a settlement - we never enjoy causing inconvenience to the public, but it is unavoidable.'