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German Rail Strike Averted as Deal Reached
27 Feb
Summary
- Wage agreement reached between Deutsche Bahn and GDL union.
- Strikes threatening passenger and freight transport averted.
- Deal resolves months of tense talks over pay and conditions.
Deutsche Bahn and the GDL train drivers' union have successfully negotiated a wage agreement, thereby preventing potential strikes that had threatened to disrupt both passenger and freight services.
The resolution of this dispute comes after several months of strenuous discussions focused on improving pay and working conditions for around 10,000 employees represented by the GDL.
The union had put forth a comprehensive list of 40 demands, which included an overall wage increase of up to 8%, enhanced allowances, better terms for trainers, and improved company pension bonuses.
This agreement represents a significant early achievement for Evelyn Palla, the newly appointed CEO of Deutsche Bahn, as she aims to decentralize responsibilities within the rail operator while it navigates substantial financial losses and considers a potential restructuring of its cargo division, DB Cargo.
