Verdi Continues Strike Wave in Northern Germany
Hannover, Germany – The labor union Verdi has launched a new wave of warning strikes in the public sector in Lower Saxony, Germany. Employees of municipal utilities, water supply companies, and waste incineration plants have gone on strike statewide as part of the ongoing wage dispute.
Massive Central Rally in Hannover
On Friday, the strike will expand to affect local public transportation. According to Verdi, over 1,200 participants gathered for a central rally in Hannover on Thursday morning. Following the attack on a Verdi demonstration in Munich last week, there was a heavy police presence, with access roads blocked by vehicles.
Strike Call in Over 30 Cities
Verdi called for the strike in more than 30 cities in Lower Saxony, including Hannover, Braunschweig, Göttingen, Osnabrück, and East Frisia. The union is demanding an 8% wage increase and more flexible working hours.
Strike to Impact Public Transportation
On Friday, the union plans to extend the strike to include Bremen, primarily affecting local public transportation. Employees of transport companies in Hannover, Bremen, Braunschweig, Osnabrück, Göttingen, Wolfsburg, Peine, and Lüchow-Dannenberg will stop work, resulting in the cancellation of bus and train services.
Part of Nationwide Protest
These actions are part of a nationwide campaign of warning strikes. Last week, strikes also took place in Lower Saxony and Bremen, affecting childcare facilities and public transportation. The strikes are a response to the ongoing wage dispute between the union and employers representing federal and local governments.
Negotiations Stalled
The second round of collective bargaining negotiations for over 2.5 million public sector employees ended without agreement on Tuesday. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for March 14-16.
Employers Cite Financial Constraints
Employers have rejected Verdi’s demands, citing financial constraints. They have not yet presented a formal offer to the union.
Impact on Essential Services
The strikes have already had a significant impact on essential services in Lower Saxony. The disruption of water supply and waste disposal has raised concerns among residents. The shutdown of public transportation on Friday is expected to cause widespread inconvenience and delays for commuters.
Union Remains Committed to Negotiations
Verdi emphasized its commitment to continuing negotiations and reaching a fair agreement with employers. However, the union stressed that it is prepared to escalate the strike action if necessary.
The ongoing dispute highlights the importance of fair wages and working conditions for public sector employees, who play a vital role in providing essential services to communities across Germany.
