
The ver.di trade union reports that the first round of bargaining covering 2.5 million employees in federal government and municipalities ended without any proposals from the employers that would address the cost-of-living crisis or staffing shortages. The union reports survey results showing that over 335,000 workers strongly support the union's demands and that the employers need to take this message seriously. Ver.di is demanding a 10.5% pay increase with a minimum of €500 a month in a 12-month agreement. The collective bargaining result will also cover civil servants, judges and soldiers. The second round of collective bargaining will take place on 22-23 February and the third round is scheduled for 27-29 March.