Public transport strikes in Berlin

Public transport users in Berlin had to find another way of getting to work this morning. Much of the system came to a standstill as employees protested to preserve their jobs. Unions accuse local authorities of backtracking on an agreement made last year, in which staff offered to accept wage cuts in order to avoid job losses. But they say Berlin city government is now unwilling to make the commitment.

Not everyone suffered from the action. “Business is great, I must say. The BVG should go on strike more often,” said one taxi driver. Unions say about 7,500 employees took part in the action, which lasted from about 3am to 10am. Meanwhile, unions say they hope Berlin authorities will get the message.

Copyright © 2012 euronews