Dockworkers deserve higher pay - no unexpected work stoppages - Increased salaries for port workers - no unexpected work stoppages expected
In a significant development, the United Services Trade Union (Verdi) and the Central Association of German Seaport Operators (ZDS) have reached a collective bargaining agreement, bringing an end to several months of tense negotiations and warning strikes that affected around 11,000 employees in seaports across Germany.
The disagreement primarily revolved around wage increases, with Verdi initially demanding an 8.4% pay rise, including a retroactive increase of three euros per hour from June 1, 2024. However, the ZDS failed to present a satisfactory offer in the third round of negotiations, leading to the strikes.
The strikes, which took place in multiple seaports including Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Wilhelmshaven, Bremen, Emden, and Brake, caused significant disruptions in port operations. The actions were part of Verdi's efforts to pressure employers for better wage conditions.
Despite the initial impasse, the fourth round of negotiations, held in Bremen shortly after the strikes, led to a provisional agreement. According to the agreement, seaport employees will receive a 3.1% hourly wage increase, and employers will pay higher allowances to port workers.
Torben Seebold, the ZDS negotiator, stated that the agreement ensures the competitiveness of German seaports in a demanding environment. He also confirmed that a one-time payment of either 1,200 or 1,800 euros, depending on the operation, is planned.
However, the agreement still needs to be written into a contract, according to Verdi. The collective bargaining agreement will run for 12 months.
The TransportVereinte Dienstleistungsgewerkschaft (United Services Trade Union) also participated in the negotiations and the warning strikes. The strikes, though disruptive, set the stage for further negotiations and increased the urgency around wage negotiations and the demands of seaport workers.
This development marks a significant step forward in ensuring fair wages for seaport workers in Germany, and both parties have expressed their commitment to maintaining open lines of communication and continuing to work towards the best interests of all parties involved.
The agreed upon collective policy will incorporate higher pay allowances for seaport employees, reflecting the industry's financial commitments towards better vocational training and ensuring the competitiveness of transport operations in the future. The signed agreement, running for 12 months, also includes a one-time payment as a show of recognition for the vocational training and dedication of the seaport workers.
