Public Sector Warning Strike Takes Hold in Germany: Key Services Affected
Berlin, Germany – The trade union Verdi has declared the ongoing warning strike in the public sector a success, with high participation rates and several demonstrations.
Strikes Impact Essential Services
The strike, which began today and will continue tomorrow, has disrupted various essential services in Berlin, including waste disposal and transportation. Hundreds of Berlin Stadtreinigung (BSR) employees, responsible for waste collection and winter maintenance, are participating in the strike. However, the union has decided to maintain full winter service operations due to the current weather conditions, which include snowfall.
As a result, BSR is not emptying residual and organic waste containers or public trash cans, and recycling centers are closed. The strike also affects Berliner Bäderbetriebe, the city’s swimming pool operator. Some indoor swimming pools are opening later or not at all, and swimming clubs have canceled courses.
Healthcare System Impacted
The strike is also having an impact on healthcare. At Charité, the city’s largest hospital, non-urgent surgeries have been postponed. However, critical procedures such as tumor operations, transplants, surgeries on children, and care for patients with strokes, heart attacks, and other emergencies are still being performed. The impact on Vivantes clinics is less clear, but no closures are expected.
Water Supply Unaffected
Despite the strike at Berliner Wasserbetriebe, the city’s water utility, emergency plans have been implemented to ensure that water supply is not disrupted for residents.
Union Demands and Negotiations
Verdi and the Beamtenbund, the union representing civil servants, are demanding an 8% wage increase or a minimum of €350 per month, as well as higher allowances for particularly demanding work. The next round of collective bargaining negotiations is scheduled for February 17 and 18.
Demonstration in Berlin
Approximately 2,500 people participated in a demonstration in Berlin today, organized by Verdi. The protest march proceeded from the Federal Ministry of Finance to the office of the Association of Municipal Employer Associations.
Impact on Berliners
While the strike may cause some inconvenience for Berlin residents, the union has emphasized the importance of these actions in advocating for fair wages and working conditions for public sector employees. The strike is expected to continue tomorrow, and its ultimate impact remains to be seen.
