Train drivers' union GDL announces result of ballot on indefinite strikes
The train drivers' union GDL will announce the result of the ballot on indefinite rail strikes on Tuesday (17:00).
If at least 75 percent of the votes cast are in favor of more extensive industrial action, GDL boss Claus Weselsky can use such action at any time as a means of exerting pressure in the wage dispute. However, the union has promised not to strike again until January 8 at the earliest. It is considered certain that the quorum for indefinite strikes will be reached.
The GDL and Deutsche Bahn have reached a deadlock in the wage dispute. Weselsky declared the negotiations to have failed after the second round. One sticking point is the reduction in weekly working hours for shift workers on full pay demanded by the GDL. The union wants a reduction from 38 to 35 hours. Deutsche Bahn considers this to be unachievable.
Since the start of wage negotiations at the beginning of November, the GDL has already brought most passenger trains to a standstill twice with warning strikes lasting 20 and 24 hours respectively. Weselsky has threatened longer industrial action for the coming year.
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- Following the announcement, if the 'original vote' in the GDL ballot favors indefinite strikes by at least 75%, the 'train drivers' union GDL' will have the authority to initiate strikes at their discretion as a bargaining tool in the ongoing wage dispute.
- Despite threatening 'strikes' in the new year, the GDL has agreed to wait until at least 'January 8' before resuming any industrial action, providing a temporary respite for 'Deutsche Bahn' and travelers alike.
- The result of the 'GDL' ballot, expected to be announced on Tuesday, could have significant implications for the ongoing 'wage dispute' between the union and 'Deutsche Bahn', potentially leading to further industrial action or an end to the impasse.
Source: www.ntv.de
