Strike arm in Saarbrücken: daycare centers and hospitals stand still!

Strike arm in Saarbrücken: daycare centers and hospitals stand still!

The collective bargaining conflict in the public service reaches a new highlight because the Verdi union calls for several strikes for this week. On March 7, 2025, employees in various areas, including daycare centers and healthcare, resigned their work. This happens while there is no solution in sight. Verdi calls for a salary increase of 8 percent or at least 350 euros per month as well as additional vacation days and paid breaks in the hospital sector to improve working conditions and combat the lack of personnel. As sr.de are not only locally, but also nationwide.

Eight urban daycare centers in Merzig are particularly affected today, while the city administration in Saarbrücken also expects strikes. Parents were informed and asked to find out about alternative care options. A central rally on Ludwigsplatz in Saarbrücken is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., in which around 1,500 participants are expected. In the past few weeks there have been similar strikes nationwide, for example in hospital members in Heilbronn and Crailsheim, which also take part in today's industry strike.

strikes and rallies

The effects of the strikes are profound. In Saarbrücken, the garbage cans are not emptied until today, which caused the city administration to ask customers with full garbage cans to put their garbage next to the bin. The recycling centers and composting systems in Saarbrücken are also closed during the strike days. In Saarlouis, the recycling center remains closed because of the warning strikes.

The situation also escalates in health care, as employees in municipal hospitals are called on on Thursday to put their work down. These include the Winterberg Clinic Saarbrücken, SHG clinics Völklingen and the St. Ingbert district hospital. Nationwide, over 200 hospitals take part in the strikes, which leads to a significant decline in health care. As Verdi.de , central rallies are also planned in other cities such as Neunkirchen and Düsseldorf.

political dimension and future prospects

Frustration about working conditions is clearly audible. Verdi is dissatisfied with the low appreciation of the employees by employers. Christine Behle, deputy chairman of Verdi, made it clear in a current statement that the demands for more salary and better working conditions are based on urgent action. The next round of negotiations with the federal government and municipalities is scheduled for mid -March 2025.

Last week around 45,000 people have already resigned nationwide, a clear sign that the displeasure is widespread over the current working conditions. The demands expressed in unison should not only increase the attractiveness of the public service, but also combat the growing lack of personnel.

The upcoming protests and strikes offer a platform for employees to raise their voices and to fight for the necessary change. Other warning strikes in all federal states are being prepared with the aim of making the concerns of the employees more heard. The current developments are paid great attention while the pressure on employers grows to finally present a negotiable offer.