80% of German long-distance trains canceled: striking train drivers are demanding a salary increase and a reduction in weekly working hours.
This is the fourth strike organized by the German train drivers’ union since last November.
80% of long-distance trains were canceled this Wednesday and the strike is scheduled to last until Monday.
Most cross-border trains with Switzerland have been replaced by substitute Swiss trains.
Katharina Stauder, teacher: “The union probably won’t like the fact that there is an alternative. But it’s very good for me, of course. And it’s also very reliable, I must say. Always at the ‘hour.”
The German train drivers’ union demands a reduction from 38 to 35 hours in weekly working hours.
The German railway company has once again rejected the demands and speaks of “already well-known maximum requirements.”
The German government does not rule out proceeding to arbitration in the event of a blockage in negotiations.
