- German Railways: No Immediate Reduction in Train Service Capacity
Deutsche Bahn's Job Reduction Plan Leaves EVG Worried - CEO Richard Lutz Confirms No Initial Impact on Operational Trains
The announcement of thousands upon thousands of job losses by Deutsche Bahn has put the Railway and Transport Union (EVG) on edge. Nevertheless, during a high-level meeting with labor reps, CEO Richard Lutz reassured the union that these layoffs won't impact operational trains straight away. "We must trim expenses, yet we won't do so at the cost of our passengers or safety," Lutz mentioned post-meeting.
Deputy HR Director Martin Seiler, who was present, confirmed, "Individuals vital for services will be taken on, regardless of questions asked." He further elaborated, "In our direct rail division, we've consistently high demand, especially for train drivers, maintenance crew, traffic controllers, and support staff." This year, Deutsche Bahn aims to recruit approximately 25,000 fresh faces.
However, as the operational sector shrinks due to mounting skills scarcity, Seiler indicated, "But this can only occur if new advancements take hold and unlock the required potential." Referencing digitalization, automation, and AI, he emphasized.
Previously, Deutsche Bahn had revealed plans to slash around 30,000 jobs over a five-year period in their mid-year report. "We need to develop more trains with fewer staff members in the future," stated CFO Levin Holle at the time.
Previously, EVG Chairman Martin Burkert had expressed concern about job cuts affecting the operational sector. After the latest developments, Burkert expressed relief, stating, "This is a significant message to our workforce. EVG calls for utmost transparency in any additional measures."
Deutsche Bahn has assured that the job loss won't involve terminations. Instead, they'll capitalize on natural turnover and the expansive internal labor market. Procedures such as phased retirement and voluntary severance packages may be used in specific scenarios.
The Railway and Transport Union (EVG) is concerned about the massive job cuts announced by Deutsche Bahn, which operates on numerous railway lines. Despite this, Deputy HR Director Martin Seiler assures that essential personnel in the direct rail division, including train drivers and maintenance crew, will be retained.
