Wage Dispute Mediation at the BVG? Mission for Talks on Tuesday!
- Hearings held on Tuesday (initially)
Here's the lowdown on the ongoing wage feud between the Berlin Transport Authority (BVG) and Verdi. The two parties have scheduled preliminary discussions for Tuesday to delve into the possibility of mediation.
The BVG issued a statement to the German Press Agency, saying that the details of this mediation process, such as the timeline and potential mediators, will be discussed during these talks.
Verdi signaled the wage negotiations with the municipal company for approximately 16,000 employees as a stalemate following the sixth round on Friday. In retaliation, the union announced further warning strikes on Wednesday and Thursday. Furthermore, Verdi has plans to hold a ballot among its members, potentially leading to unlimited strikes. Conversely, the BVG expressed a desire to settle the conflict through mediation, choosing external arbitrators to help broker a beneficial resolution.
Previously, Verdi expressed interest in mediation but also committed to the strike vote process.
Behind the Scenes
Here's some juicy context on the negotiation process:
- Mediation Kickoff:
- The BVG introduced the suggestion of mediation to resolve the wage dispute when collective bargaining negotiations faltered.[1]
- Potential talks could occur as soon as the week after the decision to pursue mediation, depending on Verdi's approval.[1]
- Mediation Procedure:
- External mediators step in to find a resolution to the quarrel.[1]
- During mediation, no strikes are permitted.[1]
- Mediation Result:
- Once concluded, mediators will deliver a recommendation for an agreement.[1]
- Resolution Timeline:
- Although the precise timeline for settling the dispute through mediation isn't specified, it's anticipated to happen post-current warning strikes and before any indefinite strikes that could commence as early as April.[1]
Who Could These Mysterious Mediators Be?
Regrettably, the sources don't list the potential mediators in the BVG-Verdi dispute. Typically, mediators originate from neutral third-party organizations with extensive conflict resolution experience. In Germany, possible mediators could include the Federal Mediators or other designated officials who specialize in labor disputes.
What's Cooking Now?
- Warning Strikes: Watch out for the next warning strike set for Wednesday to Friday morning.[1][4]
- Strike Vote: Verdi is in the throes of preparing for a vote on indefinite strikes, which could start in April if at least 75% of participating members support it.[1]
What's Next?
- Potential Prolonged Strikes: If mediation doesn't put an end to the dispute, Berlin may face lengthier strikes after the strike vote is completed.[1]
- Berlin Senate's Role: The Berlin Senate has been asked to ensure proper financing for fair wages at the BVG to curb further arguments.[1]
- The BVG proposed mediation as a means to resolve the stalemated wage negotiations with Verdi, with potential talks occurring shortly after the consent from Verdi.
- If the mediation process succeeds, external mediators will present a recommendation for an agreement that could help settled the dispute, post the current warning strikes and before any potential indefinite strikes.
- In the event that mediation doesn't bring a resolution, it's possible that the mediation could lead to prolonged strikes and the Berlin Senate may be tasked with ensuring proper financing for fair wages at the BVG.
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