Train Woes Due to Wage Disputes and Strikes
Travelers in Baden-Württemberg brace themselves for potential train cancellations and delays this Thursday. The cause is a warning strike called by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL) in the ongoing wage dispute with Deutsche Bahn (DB).
Though the exact number of train employees joining the GDL's strike wasn't clear in the early morning, a union representative reported that the strike was already causing significant disruption. Deutsche Bahn urged passengers to postpone their journey or contact them for individual route inquiries. This recommendation applies not just to long-distance services but also to regional ones, operated by private companies such as GoAhead or SWEG.
The GDL announced a 20-hour warning strike at Deutsche Bahn, beginning Wednesday evening and lasting until Thursday evening. During this time, staff would cease work from 10 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday.
Negotiations for a new collective agreement between the GDL and DB had commenced last week. The GDL voiced demands including a monthly salary increase of 555 euros and an inflation compensation bonus up to 3,000 euros. A major point of contention is the request for a reduction of working hours from 38 to 35 hours for shift workers, with full compensation.
Warning strikes organized by the GDL resulted in numerous train cancellations and delays, causing substantial traffic disruption. Furthermore, passengers relying on long-distance services may face increased travel costs as a consequence of these strikes.
Background Information
- Deutsche Bahn-EVG Wage Dispute:
- Current Status: Ongoing negotiations between Deutsche Bahn and EVG show signs of progress, with both parties anticipating an agreement soon, but a deal has yet to be reached[1].
- Key Demands: The EVG is requesting a 7.6 percent wage increase, supplemented by a 2.6 percent payment for shift workers, with a portion convertible into additional days off. The union also seeks job security until the end of 2027.[1]
- Deutsche Bahn Offer: Deutsche Bahn presented an improved offer with an additional 1.3 percent payment for shift workers, translating to an overall wage increase of 7.9 percent for approximately 100,000 employees.[1]
- GDL and BVG Labor Disputes:
- The GDL is not directly involved in the negotiations between Deutsche Bahn and EVG. However, ongoing labor disputes in Germany, such as the one at BVG (Berlin's local transit operator), can have indirect implications for passenger travel costs and services.
The wage dispute between Deutsche Bahn and the EVG might result in strikes, leading to further disruptions to train services. Increased fares or service adjustments could also be consequences of wage hikes. Meanwhile, the labor dispute at BVG has already impacted bus, tram, and subway services in Berlin, threatening passenger travel costs and confidence in the rail network.
