German railways will be paralyzed today by a strike called by the EVG union in support of a pay rise. Around 50 companies, including national rail operator Deutsche Bahn, are expected to be affected by the strike. The strike has been announced between 3 am and 11 am, but Deutsche Bahn expects transport to be disrupted throughout the day as trains will not run in the morning.
The last all-day strike on German railways took place three weeks ago. Workers' representatives are demanding, among other things, a 12% pay rise for their 230,000 members, or at least 650 euros ($712) a month, amid rising inflation and the cost of living. Deutsche Bahn has offered a 5% pay rise and a one-off payment of 2,500 euros. Inflation in Germany fell to 7.4% in March from a peak of 8.8% in October. The EVG said the pay rise was necessary because of "financial burdens that have risen sharply".
"By calling a temporary warning strike this time in the early hours of the morning, we are making it clear that we do not want to hit passengers, but companies," commented EVG board member Cosima Ingenschay.
Deutsche Bahn has strongly criticized the strike, saying it is only a recruitment action. What is the point of this? This strike is completely useless and unnecessary. Friday, the week's busiest day, hits many commuters particularly hard. The EVG has completely lost its sense of proportion and is only focusing on rioting," said Martin Seiler, head of HR.
