Impending Strikes Affect Waste Collection and Waterway Services as Verdi Mobilizes Workers

The union Verdi has announced plans for further strikes across various public services, including waste collection and waterway management, in anticipation of upcoming negotiations regarding pay for public sector employees.

In a move designed to galvanize support ahead of the next round of tariff discussions scheduled for Friday, Verdi is calling on tens of thousands of workers to participate in these work stoppages. The union's leadership has expressed growing frustration with employers who have yet to present a formal offer.

According to Verdi, last week saw robust participation, with approximately 55,000 employees halting work to advocate for better pay and conditions in the public sector. Union chief Frank Werneke emphasized the urgency of the situation by stating that public employers need to recognize the determination of the workforce.

Verdi is aiming for an overall wage increase of eight percent, with a minimum raise of 350 euros per month. The union is also advocating for higher compensation for challenging shift work, the addition of three extra days off, and the establishment of a 'My Time' account, which would provide employees with more flexibility in their working hours.

The planned strikes are expected to impact a wide range of services, highlighting the ongoing tensions in negotiations between public sector workers and their employers. As negotiations progress, Verdi remains firm in its stance that significant improvements are necessary to meet the needs of its members.

With the potential for disruptions in essential services, both the union and the public are closely monitoring the situation as it develops. The outcome of the negotiations will likely have widespread implications for public service employment in the region.