The labor dispute between Deutsche Bahn (DB) and the Union of German Locomotive Drivers (GDL) has escalated into a legal battle, as DB argues that the union is incapable of negotiating a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and should be “prohibited from striking,” now the case is under the jurisdiction of the Hessian Labor Court.
Tensions rose just before Christmas when GDL announced plans to strike from January 8. DB claims the union’s demands would negatively impact them while favoring Fair Train, a cooperative closely linked to GDL through shared personnel, including GDL leader Claus Weselsky, who is also the cooperative’s founder.
At the heart of the conflict is GDL’s push to reduce weekly working hours from 38 to 35 over four days. DB contends this would worsen the scarcity of train drivers and increase reliance on temporary employment agencies. GDL, however, is open to a gradual reduction, starting with 38 hours in 2025 and reaching 35 by 2028. DB underscores GDL’s request for a shorter notice period, claiming it aims to facilitate quicker transitions to Fair Train, leading to a substantial 50% increase in personnel costs.
The dispute also involves financial conditions with GDL seeking a general salary increase of 555 euros, a 25% allowance boost, and an inflation compensation bonus. In response, DB proposed an alternative offer, including an 11% wage increase over 32 months and a 2,850 euros inflation compensation.
Image source: https://www.railfreight.com/business/2024/01/05/db-takes-german-locomotive-drivers-union-to-court-over-strike-dispute/