Verdi threatens BVG with warning strikes: collective bargaining is imminent!

Verdi threatens BVG with warning strikes: collective bargaining is imminent!

The Berlin Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) faces a potential industrial action that could significantly impair mobility in the capital. The Verdi union has scheduled negotiations for next Wednesday, January 15, 2025 and has already announced warning strikes. "If the employer does not move, industrial action will occur," said Verdi negotiator Jeremy Arndt. Verdi calls for a significant increase in salary of 750 euros per month, as well as allowances for travelers and shift work, which the BVG could cost a total of around 250 million euros. This information was reported by rbb24 and ZEIT ONLINE

The BVG is not only faced with internal challenges, but also a tense labor market. "Personnel needs are enormous and we are not competitive on the job market," continued Arndt. The BVG has not yet responded to these demands, and the pressure on the company could increase because the employees concerned hope for improved working conditions. The last big strike round at BVG has been a long time ago; The last significant industrial action took place in 2008. Since then, however, there have always been minor conflicts, such as Verdi and rbb24 report.

The negotiations are, as it were, an answer to the tense financial situation in the city, which led to drastic cuts in local public transport. The BVG is under pressure because the state of Berlin as the owner reduces the funds due to restrictive budget measures. Verdi has also announced that it will announce strikes at least 24 hours in advance to ensure certain planning security for passengers. The first round of negotiations in this critical situation could decide on the future working atmosphere and the remuneration at BVG.

rbb24