Mayor calls for investments for Oberhausen: Secure the future!

Mayor calls for investments for Oberhausen: Secure the future!

On May 2, 2025, the school-practical teaching training on Marktstraße in Oberhausen took place in the employee reception of the city and the German Trade Union Federation (DGB). Mayor Daniel Schranz spoke in front of those present and addressed the important role that works and staff councils play in society. "Without their commitment, a fair labor market would not be conceivable," said Schranz.

he took the opportunity to express his concern about the current economic and political challenges in Germany and worldwide. The new government is required to pursue urgent issues and to create planning security for companies and people. "We have to invest in a future -proof manner," said the mayor, who referred to the record investments of over 100 million euros in schools, daycare centers, sports facilities and infrastructure in 2024. These investments are to be continued in the current year.

meaning of the works council

Schranz thanked the unions and works councils for their tireless efforts for peace, tolerance, democracy and social security. This commitment is particularly important in times of economic change and the challenges through digital transformation. The Federal Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Hubertus Heil, had already emphasized the importance of works councils in his speech on the first reading of the "Works Council Ordering Act". They represent the interests of employees and ensure that occupational safety rules are observed.

The law aims to introduce basic renovations of the Works Constitution Act. These include measures that make it easier to establish works councils and strengthen the protection against dismissal for election initiators. In addition, the right to carry out works council meetings via video and telephone conference is introduced. This is particularly relevant in times of home office and mobile work and shows how important the participation of employees has become in the modern working world.

infrastructure and education in Oberhausen

"We will continue to rely on creative modernization of our educational institutions," said the mayor. The center for practical school teachers on Marktstrasse represents this progress and plays a central role in the training of teachers. "The revitalization of Marktstrasse will benefit the entire Alt-Oberhausen City economically," added Schranz. Investments in education and infrastructure are not only a sign of the city's commitment, but also a step to strengthen the local economy.

The mayor appealed to everyone present to continue to stand up for the values ​​of tolerance and democracy. "Our social commitment is required, especially in challenging times," he concluded, and solidarized with the unions and the works councils that fight for the rights of employees. This solidarity is not only of great importance in Oberhausen, but also nationwide to promote a fair and stable society.

The challenges through digital working worlds and the use of artificial intelligence will significantly influence the future discussion about works councils and their rights. Although some progress has been made, the critical examination of the existing laws and their further development in the digital age remains essential in order to secure the rights of the employees in the long term.