The head of GDL suggests that there is a potential for Christmas train strikes in Germany

The head of GDL suggests that there is a potential for Christmas train strikes in Germany

The leader of the German Train Drivers' Union has stated that the possibility of nationwide train strikes in Germany exists this Christmas as the union resumes talks with Deutsche Bahn.

GDL Warns of Possible Christmas Strikes at Deutsche Bahn

In an interview with Funke Mediengruppe on November 1, Claus Weselsky, the leader of the German Train Drivers’ Union (GDL), indicated that strikes during the Christmas season in Germany are a potential outcome, leading to significant disruptions in long-distance train services.

With the expiration of an industrial peace agreement between GDL and Deutsche Bahn, the union is reengaging in salary negotiations with the national rail provider. Weselsky conveyed that he does not want to exclude the possibility of strikes. In response, Martin Seiler, a representative of Deutsche Bahn, proposed a 14-day peace agreement during the Christmas period, contingent on the outcome of the upcoming negotiations.

What are the GDL's Demands for Deutsche Bahn Train Drivers?

With the conclusion of the industrial peace agreement between Deutsche Bahn (DB) and the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL) on October 31, collective bargaining is set to resume on November 9. On behalf of its members, GDL is advocating for a 35-hour workweek for shift workers with full wages, a monthly salary increase of 555 euros, and a tax-free compensation bonus of 3,000 euros.

GDL leader Weselsky expressed the hope that Deutsche Bahn would accept their demands on November 9, considering it the most favorable resolution in negotiations. In response, Seiler argued that the GDL's demands were unreasonable, contending that they would lead to a 50% increase in staff costs, necessitating the recruitment of thousands of additional employees amid a growing worker shortage.

Weselsky emphasized that the proposal to reduce the workweek from 38 to 35 hours would be a focal point in what he anticipates to be challenging discussions. He noted that DB's reluctance to disclose information before the talks commence might perpetuate a "conflict spiral."

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