Union for (Heavy Vehicle) Operators - Final gathering for GDL leader Weselsky's tenure
The top governing body of the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL), commonly known as the General Assembly, is scheduled to gather in Dresden on Monday. This gathering could potentially see the selection of a new leader to replace long-term union head Claus Weselsky, who's stepping down after 16 years of service.
Weselsky, aged 65, has been leading the train drivers' union for nearly two decades, overseeing numerous prolonged salary disagreements with Deutsche Bahn. His retirement is imminent.
Weselsky's potential replacement is currently one of the deputy federal chairmen, Mario Reiß. Much like Weselsky, Reiß hails from Saxony. A skilled railway vehicle mechanic and train operator, Reiß has been part of the GDL since 1990 and has served as deputy federal chairman for approximately two years.
The current deputy federal chairman, Mario Reiß, is a contender to replace Weselsky as the locomotive driver union's leader. If elected, Reiß will inherit Weselsky's responsibilities, including managing negotiations with Deutsche Bahn over salary matters.
