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Waste Management Strike Planned for Thursday in Dusseldorf

Nationwide public service strikes commenced following the unsuccessful second round of negotiations on February 17-18, held in Potsdam.

Industrial Action in Waste Management Sector in Dusseldorf on Thursdays
Industrial Action in Waste Management Sector in Dusseldorf on Thursdays

Waste Management Strike Planned for Thursday in Dusseldorf

In a series of announcements, public sector employees across Germany have decided to strike, with some of the affected companies based in Düsseldorf and its surrounding areas. These companies include Stadtwerke Duisburg, Stadtwerke Düsseldorf AG, Stadtwerke Erkrath, Netzgesellschaft Düsseldorf mbH, and SWS Netze Solingen GmbH.

The strikes are part of a nationwide effort by employees in municipal utilities, water supply and wastewater disposal companies, as well as waste incineration plants, due to failed negotiations on February 17 and 18 in Potsdam. The strikes are scheduled to continue in the context of ongoing negotiations.

The employees are calling for better working conditions and higher pay to make these positions more attractive, similar to the water and waste management sectors. They are also seeking a collective agreement that would retain and attract more colleagues, ensuring quality services for citizens and alleviating the burden of employees who have been working at their limits for years, facing increased workloads and unfilled positions.

The strikes are aimed at achieving the energy transition, climate change adaptation, and digitalization while ensuring uninterrupted 24/7 safety. However, it's important to note that the strikes will not initially affect citizens directly, as essential services will be maintained.

Public transport strikes are scheduled for Friday, February 21, but waste management and disposal employees are called upon to strike on Thursday, February 20. Interestingly, Awista and waste disposal will not be affected by the strikes.

The energy sector is severely affected by a skills shortage, with many companies struggling to fill vacant positions. The strikes are a reflection of the need for good working conditions and better pay to make these positions more appealing.

As the negotiations continue, it remains to be seen how these strikes will impact the public sector in Germany and whether a resolution can be reached to prevent further disruptions.

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