German train drivers step up wage dispute with new strike

FRANKFURT: Germany’s train drivers union GDL on Monday announced fresh strikes affecting passengers and freight traffic this week that will last longer than previous stoppages, as a wage dispute with managers escalates.

GDL union leader Claus Weselsky said the freight strike would start on Wednesday, followed by passenger rail strikes from Thursday. The industrial action will end at 02:00 am the following Tuesday (0000 GMT). "We can’t see a way to avoid a labour fight if management isn’t showing any sign of movement," Weselsky said.