German workers reinforce pay claims with strikes

Germany’s efforts to maintain economic growth are been undermined by strikes and worsening industrial relations. Thousands of public sector workers took to streets across the country in the latest in a series of protests over wages. They are pushing for a 6.5 percent salary increase. One woman taking part in rally in Cologne said: “Yes, we are angry because we are always working and have to work much harder now with fewer people, so we want more money.” A man at the same demonstration said: “Those who are working, don’t get the money, but those on the top, they get all the money in their pockets. I am against this.” The country’s largest public service union called on its members to strike after pay negotiations collapsed last week. The action hit transport, causing problems for commuters in several cities. There were similar stoppages earlier this week and more protests are expected in the coming days. Pay talks are set to resume on March 12.