German Train Drivers' Union Votes for Open-Ended Strikes

Dispute with Deutsche Bahn over working hours and pay escalates as union warns of powerful future strikes.

Members of the GDL union, representing German train drivers, have voted overwhelmingly in favor of open-ended strikes against the main national railway operator, Deutsche Bahn, over disputes regarding working hours and pay.
The union is demanding a reduction in shift workers' hours from 38 to 35 hours per week without a pay cut, a proposal Deutsche Bahn claims is impractical.
GDL is also seeking a monthly pay raise of 555 euros ($605) for employees and a one-time payment of up to 3,000 euros to counter inflation.
Deutsche Bahn has offered an 11% raise, which the union has rejected.
No strikes will occur before January 8, but the union warns that future strikes will be 'more powerful, longer and harder for customers' than previous walkouts.