GDL and Deutsche Bahn continue negotiations

GDL and Deutsche Bahn Reconvene for Wage Negotiations

Talks between the GDL union and Deutsche Bahn (DB) remain in session, pursuing a new collective agreement. This time around, GDL chief Claus Weselsky, who had previously missed most of Thursday's discussions, was back at the negotiating table in Berlin on Friday. He opted to keep his opinion on the present state of negotiations to himself, while DB personnel director Martin Seiler refrained from commenting as well.

The main hurdle in the wage negotiations revolves around the GDL's call for a reduction in working hours for shift workers from 38 to 35 hours per week, without a pay reduction. DB's Seiler has dubbed this demand as unattainable given the ongoing shortage of skilled labor, and suggests that there's no possibility for flexibilty in the situation.

The union is also advocating for a salary increase of 555 euros per month and an inflation compensation bonus over a period of one year. In their initial talks two weeks ago, DB put forth an offer to the GDL, promising an uplift in wage by 11% over a 32-month span.

The union has already taken to the streets during the recent wage dispute, staging a strike which resulted in thousands of train cancellations. A current poll among GDL members is underway to evaluate the possibility of an indefinite strike. The results are expected at the end of December.

The current stalemate between GDL and German Railways has prompted GDL to push for a reduction in weekly working hours for shift workers from 38 to 35. DB personnel director Martin Seiler has voiced his dissent, citing the skilled worker shortage as a challenge. Claus Weselsky, the GDL's top brass, champions for these changes, with the union's past strike leading to significant train cancellations.

Enrichment Data:

The negotiations between Deutsche Bahn and GDL union are marred with contention over labor demands. The following are the key points:

1. Union's Demands:
2. The GDL is fighting for a 10.5% salary hike and a 35-hour workweek[1].
3. The union is also pushing for job security commitments through 2027 and extra perks for shift workers[4].
4. Deutsche Bahn's Position:
5. DB has put forth a 4% uniform wage increase, with an additional 2.6% for shift workers[4].
6. DB is expressing concerns over the skilled worker shortage and the feasibility of reducing working hours to 35 hours per week[1].
7. Negotiation Progress:
8. The first round of discussions concluded without a settlement. The EVG (Eisenbahn- und Verkehrsgewerkschaft) has characterized DB's offer as inadequate, affirming a demand for at least 7.6% more for all employees[4].
9. The next rounds of negotiations are set for February 4 and February 5, 2025, with both sides pledging a productive dialogue[4].
10. Political and Economic Context:
11. The negotiations are taking place amid political contingencies and pressures from upcoming federal elections. The EVG is urging for a swift agreement to protect workers against imminent changes, such as potential privatization of DB segments[4].
12. Germany's economy is grappling with high costs and the need for more significant structural reforms, both of which are contributing to labor disputes[5].
13. Possible Outcome:
14. If no resolution is reached, there's a likelihood of strikes, which could adversely impact rail traffic and commuters. However, both parties have pledged to avert strikes and seek a peaceful settlement[4].
15. The outcome will hinge on the flexibility of both sides to compromise, given the economic constraints and the need to address the skilled worker shortage. The negotiations will play a decisive role in shaping future labor relations and the restructuring of the German rail industry.