Title: Progress on Working Hours, but Stalemate at Deutsche Bahn
The union GDL has reported progress in wage negotiations with two regional rail operators, Transdev and Netinera. Transdev is open to discussions about reducing weekly working hours, and negotiations with Netinera are advance, potentially reaching a conclusion next week. Meanwhile, tensions persist between GDL and Deutsche Bahn, with the latter accused of adhering to an obstinate stance, leading to potential industrial action.
The crux of the dispute with Deutsche Bahn revolves around the 35-hour workweek for shift workers. Deutsche Bahn consistently denies this reduction and refuses to entertain the idea of a four-day workweek with full compensation. However, Transdev is open to discussing a 35-hour workweek in conjunction with five working days.
There's been substantial movement in wage talks between Deutsche Bahn and the EVG, though. The union initially demanded a 7.6% wage increase, but Deutsche Bahn countered with an offer of up to 6.6%. After several rounds of negotiations, Deutsche Bahn improved its offer to a 7.9% wage hike for approximately 100,000 employees, with an additional 1.3% for shift workers. A collective agreement has been reached, encompassing a 6.5% wage increase over nearly three years and an additional 2.6% for shift workers, convertible to additional days off.
Yet, the GDL's progress with Transdev and Netinera hasn't dissuaded them from pressing Deutsche Bahn to reconsider its stance on the 35-hour workweek. GDL continues to criticize Deutsche Bahn's unyielding approach, alleging an ignorance of worker concerns and magnifying the risk of further industrial action.
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