IG Metall Union Demands Seven Percent Pay Increase and More for Metal and Electrical Industry Workers
The IG Metall union has made a bold demand for a seven percent pay increase for the nearly four million employees in the metal and electrical industries. Additionally, they are calling for one year of more self-determined working hours and a significant increase in apprentice salaries by 170 euros.
First Chairwoman of the union, Christiane Benner, emphasized the union's commitment to giving a voice to the younger generation. The demand, although currently only a recommendation by the IG Metall board, is backed by the results of a survey of works councils and employees and discussions in the district collective bargaining committees.
Negotiations are set to begin in September, with the peace obligation ending on October 28, after which warning strikes may be possible. However, the start of the wage round has already seen tensions rise as the influential southwestern employers association Südwestmetall expressed concerns about the weak economy and the industry's difficult situation, claiming there is currently no room for higher wages.
Despite decreased inflation rates, employees are feeling the impact of rising prices due to the war in Ukraine, making it crucial for wages to keep up with the cost of living. The wage increase is seen as a way to offset increased costs and strengthen purchasing power for workers.
The wage round is further complicated by the diverse economic situations within the metal and electrical industries. While some companies report stable performance, others highlight declining order intake and sales. The union argues that fear of declining standards of living among employees poses a threat to democracy.
In addition to the demands for a pay increase, self-determined working hours, and higher apprentice salaries, IG Metall intends to campaign for higher compensation for apprentices, who are particularly affected by the rise in prices. These demands reflect the union's efforts to address the challenges faced by workers in the industry and sustain their standard of living for the future.
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