Amid an intensifying disagreement with Deutsche Bahn over compensation and work hours, the GDL union has revealed plans for a six-day strike among German train drivers this week, representing a pinnacle in the ongoing conflict.
Set to kick off at 2:00 am (0100 GMT) on Wednesday and persist until 1700 GMT on Monday, the strike’s impact on passenger services is anticipated. GDL’s statement in the early hours of Monday further disclosed plans for a cessation of freight services from 1700 GMT on Tuesday.
Deutsche Bahn strongly denounces the union, accusing them of “acting absolutely irresponsibly” in response to the ongoing strike, adding fuel to the dispute.
GDL is on the verge of its fourth strike in recent months, persistently advocating for increased salaries to counter inflation and pushing for a reduced 35-hour workweek without compromising wages.
Travel chaos ensued for thousands of passengers during a three-day walkout earlier this month, with a staggering 80 percent of long-distance trains grinding to a halt.
GDL has opted for a renewed strike, citing Deutsche Bahn’s lack of willingness to reach an agreement despite the presentation of what GDL describes as a “third and allegedly improved offer.”
The union, as per their statement, will convene a press conference at 11:30 am to expound on further details.
Deutsche Bahn did not hold back in sharply criticizing the renewed industrial action call, underlining their proposal of pay raises up to 13 percent and the possibility of reducing the working week by one hour.
‘The GDL is exacerbating the conflict,’ a spokesman said.
‘Anyone who doesn’t even come to the negotiating table with a new offer of up to 13 percent and the possibility of a 37-hour week with the same salary is acting absolutely irresponsibly.’
A clash between Deutsche Bahn and the EVG rail union, advocating for approximately 180,000 non-driver rail personnel, occurred last year. The dispute was resolved with an agreement reached in late August.