Trade unions like IG Metall and IG BCE are taking to the streets once again, this time demanding electricity price relief for energy-intensive industries. With around 10,000 workers from the steel, metal, and chemical sectors expected to join the rally in Duisburg, and a demonstration planned in front of the Federal Ministry of Finance in Berlin, the duo is making their voices heard loud and clear.
The cry for relief is fueled by the traffic light coalition's electricity price package, which they deem inadequate. Although it includes significant reductions in electricity tax for the manufacturing industry and extends existing electricity price compensation for affected companies, the unions believe it's not enough.
At the Duisburg rally, leaders like IG BCE boss Michael Vassiliadis and IG Metall boss Christiane Benner will address the crowd, along with representatives from industry giants like Thyssenkrupp Steel. The discussion will not only focus on the current situation but also delve into the consequences of the Federal Constitutional Court's budget ruling. This ruling has left the energy-intensive sector fearing a significant detriment to their funding conditions as they strive towards climate neutrality.
While the German government is taking steps to alleviate electricity price concerns, such as introducing dynamic tariffs and smart meter rollouts, trade unions remain critical. They argue that these measures may not address the deep-rooted causes of high energy costs, erode economic competitiveness, endanger job security, and exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities.
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