EVG: Except for Easter strikes

After the massive traffic strike next Monday, train passengers in Germany need not fear a rail strike for Easter, according to rail union EVG. According to Bild am Sonntag, EVG said: “We will not be negotiating around the Easter holidays, as we want to hit employers, not travelers, with strikes.”

The EVG urged its members to go on a nationwide warning strike on Monday. At the same time, members of the Verdi services union showed their work. That’s why Deutsche Bahn will completely shut down its long-distance traffic on Monday, but train passengers will likely have to wait for delays and cancellations until Sunday evening and Tuesday.

Even with DB Regio, which operates regional traffic by rail, there will be mostly no trains. Air transport and, in some federal states, local public transport are also affected by the strikes.

EVG is negotiating a new collective agreement at 50 rail and bus companies nationwide. It calls for wage increases of twelve percent overall, but of at least 650 euros as the “social component”, over a one-year period.

Verdi boss Frank Werneke advised citizens to “Bild am Sonntag” by bike to work or walk. An attack is only effective if it sends an error-free signal.

Although the strikes were not used to recruit new members, many who first entered industrial action would join later.

Karin Welge, President of the Municipal Employers’ Union (VKA), harshly criticized the planned major strike in the preliminary report.

According to Bild am Sonntag, Welge said the strike at local, long-distance and airports was excessive and damaged not only the reputation of the civil service but also Germany’s reputation as a location connected to mobility.