From 10 pm Until Midnight on Thursday - Potential Disruption on Berlin's S-Bahn Trains
Verdi, a prominent German trade union, has announced potential disruptions on Berlin's S-Bahn trains commencing from 10 pm until midnight on Thursday. The strike could involve long-distance, regional, and suburban train services like those in Berlin and Hamburg.
Verdi United in Demands
Member unions of Verdi aim to push for various demands, including but not limited to:
- Higher Pay: A suggested monthly increase of 750 euros for all employees [3].
- Enhanced Shift Allowances: Implementing higher shift allowances instead of proposed real wage losses [3].
- Personnel Development: Required personnel expansion to secure Berlin's public transportation’s future [3].
- Additional Free Days: Three extra annual leave days to counteract heavy workloads [3].
- Time Management: A "Meine-Zeit-Konto" system to empower employees with time management and flexible working [3].
However, the exact number of Verdi members participating in the strike remains unclear at this time.
S-Bahn Berlin Warns of Restrictions
During and following the strike, Berliners and Brandenburgers needing commuting tickets should be prepared for potential delays or cancelations. S-Bahn Berlin has also warned of constraints, which could happen before and after the strike period.
Alternative Means of Transportation
As a precautionary measure, affected passengers are encouraged to opt for alternative transportation options, including buses, streetcars, and subway trains operated by the BVG, which is not affected by the work stoppage.
Unfortunately, the strike's impact on regional services and suburban trains in Hamburg will also likely last from 10 pm on Thursday until 10 pm on Friday.
Negotiations Failure: GDL's Frustration
Recounting the failed wage negotiations, GDL (Gewerkschaft Deutscher Lokomotivführer) chairperson Claus Weselsky, 64, figured out that the railroad lacked any signaling for concessions regarding shift workers' working hours [1]. The GDL membership last went on strike on November 15 and 16, causing significant disruptions and influencing suburban trains and not just long-distance journeys [1].
Advent Strike Upset
DB railway personnel director Martin Seiler is not amused by the union's decision to proceed with the strike, stating that "the train drivers' union is ruining millions of uninvolved people's second Advent weekend" [1].
DB personnel director Martin Seiler believes that the proposed strike is "irresponsible and selfish." Moreover, he called on the GDL to cancel the strike and engage in productive negotiations instead [1].
Indefinite Strikes Possible
If 75% of the Ballot Voters Favor, Verdi may proceed with indefinite strikes, putting Deutsche Bahn in a challenging position. One of the union's significant goals is to reduce the weekly working hours from 38 to 35 hours while maintaining salaries [1].
References and Enrichment
[1] (Source: ) [3] (Enrichment Data: These demands can be largely attributed to the Gewerkschaft Verdi, which is the primary union responsible for the strike.)
