Breakthrough in Germany: GDL Union and Deutsche Bahn End Strike Amidst Resumed Talks

In a significant development, Germany’s GDL train drivers’ union and rail operator Deutsche Bahn have mutually agreed to end the ongoing industrial action earlier than scheduled as negotiations resume. The strike, which marked the fourth and longest round in a prolonged dispute over pay and working hours, commenced on Wednesday and was initially planned until Monday evening. However, the union has decided to conclude the strike in freight transport on Sunday at 6 pm and in passenger transport on Monday at 2 pm.

The decision comes as a positive step forward as negotiations between GDL and Deutsche Bahn are set to resume, bringing relief to both sides. The discussions, focused on pay and working conditions, will be held in private over the next five weeks, with no strikes anticipated until at least March 3. Both parties have committed to maintaining strict confidentiality during the negotiations and refraining from public announcements until the conclusion of the talks.

Deutsche Bahn’s Human Resources Director, Martin Seiler, expressed optimism about the resumption of negotiations, stating, “Negotiations are finally back on track. Our customers have planning security and our employees have the prospect of early pay rises.” The talks are expected to address key issues, and the atmosphere during the initial discussions has been described as constructive.

One of GDL’s primary demands involves reducing working hours from the current 38-hour week to a 35-hour week while ensuring full pay for staff. This proposal was initially rejected by Deutsche Bahn, citing cost concerns and the potential need for a 10% increase in workforce to compensate for the reduced hours. The renewed willingness to negotiate on working hours has been identified as a crucial element in the ongoing discussions, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground for the benefit of both parties involved.