Verdi Announces Warning Strike in Public Sector Wage Negotiations
Potsdam, February 9, 2023 – The German trade union Verdi has announced a warning strike in the second round of wage negotiations for the public sector in Brandenburg next week.
Strike Plan
On Monday, February 13th, employees in Brandenburg’s municipal administrations, daycare centers, and waste management companies will be called upon to participate in an all-day warning strike. The strike will also include employees of the Ernst von Bergmann Hospital in Potsdam, the Waterways and Shipping Administration, and savings banks.
** Forderungen**
Verdi is demanding an 8% pay increase, or a minimum of €350 more per month, as well as three additional days off in recognition of the high workload in the public sector. The union argues that this is necessary to compensate for the loss of real wages in recent years and to improve working conditions.
Previous Negotiations
An initial round of negotiations in Potsdam on January 24th ended without a result. Representatives of the federal government and municipalities cited the difficult financial situation as a reason. The next round of talks is scheduled for February 17th and 18th.
Union’s Response
"The employers’ delaying tactics must end," said Andrea Kühnemann, Verdi’s state director. "We urgently need an offer that compensates for the real wage losses of recent years and improves working conditions."
In addition to the warning strike, Verdi has announced a rally on Monday outside the Congress Hotel in Potsdam.
Impact of the Strike
The warning strike is expected to cause significant disruption to public services in Brandenburg. Municipal offices, daycare centers, and waste collection services may be affected. The strike could also impact hospital operations and transportation services provided by the Waterways and Shipping Administration.
Background
The public sector wage negotiations are taking place against the backdrop of rising inflation and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Verdi argues that these factors have put a strain on public employees, who have been working under difficult conditions for extended periods.
The federal government and municipalities, however, are facing their own financial challenges. They maintain that the union’s demands are unrealistic and cannot be met within the current budgetary constraints.
Outlook
The warning strike is a sign that Verdi is prepared to escalate its pressure on employers. The outcome of the next round of negotiations will be crucial in determining whether a compromise can be reached or if further industrial action is necessary.
