Berlin Transport Authority (BVG) and Verdi: Stalemate in Wage Negotiations - Long Strike looming
Strike Warning Following Unsuccessful Wage Negotiations by BVG - Potential Prolonged Labor Action Ensuing - Bargaining Collective Falls Short: Prolonged Strike Remains a Possibility
Let's spill the beans on the ongoing wage battle between the Berlin Transport Authority (BVG) and the trade union Verdi. The latest round of negotiations resulted in a deadlock, leaving the company in disbelief and passengers in a pickle. Verdi has announced a closed-door session to discuss an indefinite strike if the impasse persists. The BVG expressed their determination to continue discussions, but the date for the next round is yet to be set.
In the meantime,Verdi has been causing a storm in Berlin, paralyzing the public transport multiple times since January. The latest standoff occurred on March 19 and 20, with another warning strike scheduled for March 26 and 27 [5]. To score a home run, Verdi requires a whopping 75% of its participating members to vote in favor of an indefinite strike [2][5]. If they manage to pull this off, Berliners can expect more delays and disruptions, most likely in April. However, Verdi might call for additional warning strikes before the voting process commences.
The bone of contention remains the so-called basic wage. Verdi's initial demand was an extra €750 per month for a year, while the BVG offered a more spread-out €375 over 24 months. After some pressure, the BVG slightly altered its offer, decreasing the contract term from 30 to 24 months and slightly raising the wage offer [1][2]. Unfortunately, these adjustments fell short of Verdi's expectations, and the union remains unmoved.
Key Points:
- Wage negotiations between BVG and Verdi are at a standstill.
- Verdi demands a monthly increase of €750 for a year, while BVG offers €375 over 24 months.
- Multiple warning strikes have occurred since January, with more on the horizon.
- An indefinite strike requires at least 75% support from participating Verdi members.
- The next negotiation date remains an open question.
Stay tuned for the latest updates, and don't forget to check official sources like Verdi and Berlin.de for further details.
- The ongoing wage negotiations between the Berlin Transport Authority (BVG) and Verdi have reached a stalemate, with the union demanding a €750 monthly increase for a year, while the BVG offers €375 spread over 24 months.
- Verdi has announced a closed-door session to discuss an indefinite strike, which would cause further disruptions to public transport, if the impasse persists.
- Until the next round of negotiations is scheduled, Verdi continues to push for its demands, causing multiple warning strikes and causing incomprehensible delays for BVG passengers.
