Dispute over wages. - Arbitration failed to resolve bus worker dispute, employers deemed insensitive.
In a surprising turn of events, Verdi, a union representing private bus companies in Hesse, has declared a renewed warning strike despite ongoing negotiations for mediation. This move has left employers perplexed, with the negotiator for the Hessian Bus Association, Volker Tuchan, questioning the necessity of the strike on May 29th. Considering the mediation arrangement had already been agreed upon, one can't help but ponder the intent of this protest.
Verdi, the union at the center of this conflict, has planned nearly comprehensive strikes across private bus companies in the state, potentially causing substantial disruptions to public transport - particularly in Frankfurt, smaller cities, and rural regions. "We're simply highlighting our demands before engaging in mediation," said Verdi negotiator Jochen Koppel.
This Friday (31st May), a mediating committee made up of equal parts from each side is expected to be formed, allowing each party to appoint an independent mediator. In the ongoing wage dispute, Verdi is calling for a two-step increase of 8.5% for the 6,000 employees, a 3,000 euro inflation adjustment for each worker, and paid breaks. The employers, however, consider these demands unfeasible and offered an increase of 9.3% over three steps instead.
Bemused and dismayed, Tuchan expressed his disappointment at the potential impact on commuters: "It's highly regrettable that the passengers of public transport will yet again be affected."
Hessian Bus Association (LHO): linkVerdi union: link
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Source: www.stern.de
