Germany: Deutsche Bahn and Lufthansa workers go on strike
March 12, 2024
Passengers and travelers in Germany faced new difficulties on Tuesday due to parallel transport strikes at Deutsche Bahn and Lufthansa.
Germany’s national rail operator Deutsche Bahn said only 20% of the country’s long-distance trains were running. The GDL union strike also impacted regional and suburban rail services.
Meanwhile, a strike by the Lufthansa cabin crew union in Frankfurt – Germany’s busiest airport – caused the cancellation of up to 600 flights. The national carrier reported that the action could affect up to 70 thousand passengers.
Why are train drivers on strike?
GDL’s 24-hour strike is the sixth by train drivers and other rail workers in a months-long dispute with Deutsche Bahn over wages and working hours.
The main point of contention is the GDL’s requirement that working hours be reduced from 38 to 35 hours per week without a salary reduction.
During several weeks of negotiations between the two parties, moderators suggested reducing working hours from 38 to 36 by 2028. However, the GDL was not satisfied with the details of the proposal.
“Attacking instead of speaking is irresponsible,” Transport Minister Volker Wissing told Photograph newspaper
Source: DW
Lori Barajas is an accomplished journalist, known for her insightful and thought-provoking writing on economy. She currently works as a writer at 247 news reel. With a passion for understanding the economy, Lori’s writing delves deep into the financial issues that matter most, providing readers with a unique perspective on current events.