No strikes as Deutsche Bahn and train drivers resume negotiations
March 16, 2024
German national rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) announced on Saturday a new round of negotiations with train drivers’ union GDL. The company said it was “confident” that an agreement could be reached.
“Negotiations are intense but constructive,” DB said in a statement. “An agreement has been reached on many issues. Both parties are confident that they will be able to announce a result next week.”
The new talks will – at least temporarily – end weeks of repeated travel disruptions caused by striking train drivers.
DB added that both sides agreed to continue closed-door talks next week and not to make additional public statements on the status of negotiations.
The GDL union did not immediately comment on the DB announcement.
The main point of contention in two months of negotiations has been the GDL’s demand to reduce the working week from 38 to 35 hours without a reduction in salary. DB last tabled an offer to reduce the working week to 36 hours in two phases, ending in 2028, which the union rejected ahead of the most recent of its six strikes in recent months.
Some small private regional rail operators agreed to reduce hours without cutting wages if GDL enacted the same agreement with DB.
Tuesday’s strike coincided with labor action by Lufthansa cabin crew in a separate dispute, adding to the disruption for travelers.
sms/lo (dpa, AFP, AP)
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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.