GDL boss Weselsky does not want to start any new strikes over the Christmas period. However, the train drivers’ union is currently letting its members vote on an indefinite strike.
The head of the train drivers’ union (GDL), Claus Weselsky, has ruled out strikes at Deutsche Bahn over the Christmas period. “The GDL has never gone on strike over Christmas and will not do so this year either,” Weselsky told the “Leipziger Volkszeitung”. “The Christmas season is a peaceful one – and it will stay that way.”
Collective bargaining officially began last week. Deutsche Bahn submitted an initial offer, which GDL rejected as insufficient. Nevertheless, further meetings were arranged, the first for Thursday. At short notice, the GDL called for a nationwide warning strike from Wednesday evening, which caused massive disruption to rail traffic. Large parts of long-distance, regional and freight transport came to a standstill. The railway therefore canceled the agreed discussions.
Urgent vote at the GDL
However, Deutsche Bahn customers still have to expect possible new strikes: the GDL has now called on its members to vote on indefinite strikes. If the employers at Deutsche Bahn, Transdev and the other railway companies do not give in, the train drivers will have no choice but to go on strike, Weselsky told the “Leipziger Volkszeitung”.
If more than 75 percent of members agree in the strike vote, there could be longer and more frequent strikes. Weselsky justified the approach as a stalling tactic on the part of the employers.
Deutsche Bahn criticized the ballot as “strange and completely irrational.” A company spokesman commented that the negotiations had not even failed. “The train drivers’ union is only looking for conflict; it is not in a position to cooperate.”
Bahn wants to continue negotiating
Deutsche Bahn wants to continue negotiating in the collective bargaining dispute with the GDL despite the strike vote on indefinite strikes. The agreed negotiation date in the new week will of course take place, a spokesman said at the weekend. “Unless the GDL goes on strike on the negotiation date itself.”
The railway wants a solution at the negotiating table in the interests of the employees and passengers. The talks are scheduled for next Thursday and Friday.