Potential Mega Strike Looms for BVG Amid Tarifkonflikt

The ongoing tarifkonflikt at the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) may escalate into a significant strike action as negotiations continue. The union Verdi has previously staged four warning strikes, each lasting between 24 to 48 hours, highlighting the tensions surrounding the negotiations over pay and working conditions.

As of today, bus, subway, and tram services have resumed following a two-day warning strike that concluded early this morning. However, the possibility of a longer, indefinite strike remains on the table as Verdi and the BVG management prepare for their sixth round of negotiations. Both parties have indicated that they are not ruling out the potential failure of these discussions, which could lead to a call for a permanent strike by the union.

Verdi representatives have made it clear that if there is no progress regarding base salary negotiations, they may initiate a member vote for an indefinite strike. A significant majority of 75% would need to support this move. The timeline for such a vote could extend into the coming weeks, with the potential for a more extensive strike action to occur in April.

In the event that the negotiations do not yield a resolution, both parties have the option to propose the involvement of an independent mediator to facilitate a resolution. It is important to note that any mediation process would halt strike actions during its course.

The last warning strike, which lasted for two days, was the fourth instance of industrial action since late January. Following these strikes, the BVG has urged Verdi to present more flexible proposals instead of maintaining maximum demands. BVG's personnel director has emphasized the need for the union to offer compromises to reach an agreement.

The BVG has reiterated that it has made four proposals throughout the negotiations, indicating that they are willing to engage in discussions but expect reciprocal compromises from the union. The BVG's latest offer included a staggered increase of 375 euros over a period of 24 months, which would cumulatively amount to a 13.6% raise. Other topics under discussion include enhanced Christmas bonuses, additional allowances for specific shift patterns, and more flexible working hours.

Verdi, on the other hand, maintains that it has shown willingness to negotiate on certain aspects such as allowances and contract duration. However, the primary contention revolves around the demand for an increase of 750 euros per month in base salary, which the union argues is necessary to address existing wage disparities exacerbated by inflation and the rising cost of living.

As the negotiations unfold, both the BVG and Verdi are under pressure to find a mutually acceptable resolution that addresses the concerns of the workforce while ensuring the continuity of public transport services in Berlin.