New Strikes Planned at Universities in the North
Our universities in Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are set to witness another round of industrial action this week. The trade union Verdi has announced warning strikes at university hospitals across the country, as per Verdi spokesperson Frank Schischefsky. The affected hospitals include those in Kiel, Lübeck, Rostock, and Greifswald.
Recently, around 700 employees took part in a strike at the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein. It remains uncertain as to how many will join the actions in these two federal states this time around.
Verdi is pushing for a 10.5% salary increase for public sector workers in these states, with a minimum increase of €500 per month. Entry-level staff should receive an extra €200, while trainees will be offered permanent positions.
Another state-wide strike is set to take place in Schleswig-Holstein on December 6, ahead of the third round of negotiations slated for December 7.
During the second round of talks, the Tarifgemeinschaft deutscher Länder, led by chief negotiator Hamburg's Senator for Finance Andreas Dressel (SPD), expressed skepticism over Verdi's demands, deeming them exorbitant and financially unfeasible.
The continuing strikes by trade unions, including Verdi, have brought disruptions to services at numerous university hospitals, like those in Kiel and Lübeck. This may necessitate re-routing patients to alternative facilities during strike-related services interruptions due to the wage dispute.
Enrichment Insights: The ongoing labor disputes and strikes are not limited to university hospitals. Verdi is also leading strikes in the transportation and postal sectors in various regions. In the Berlin urban transit operator BVG's wage dispute with Verdi, the union demands include:
- Base Salary Increase: A rise in the base salary of €750 for a 12-month contract.
- Shift Allowance: A €300 shift allowance for driving personnel.
- Shift Premium: Redoubling the shift premium from €100 to €200.
- Bonus 13th Month’s Salary: A bonus 13th month's salary.
These demands echo a broader drive for improved wages and working conditions, with BVG workers exhibiting dissatisfaction and urging increased solidarity from colleagues in other sectors, emphasizing the need for action.
