2024-11-25 20:54:00
The civil servants’ unions will show their muscles on Tuesday when it comes to a salary agreement tailored to their wishes. Around 30,000 people are expected at a large rally in downtown Vienna in the afternoon. It is the first wage protest of its kind in eleven years. So far there has only been one salary round with the government, although the increase is supposed to take effect in January and a National Council resolution is needed for it.
The public service union reacts accordingly angrily and has already held department meetings. The large rally, which will end directly in front of the Federal Chancellery, is essentially the second stage of escalation, but a strike cannot be ruled out either. The necessary approval from the ÖGB has already been obtained.
The GÖD, which acts together with younion, which represents municipal employees, has not yet given an exact salary demand. As a basis for the negotiations, an inflation rate of 3.8 percent is assumed, while economic growth is assumed to be down by 0.6 percent.
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What are the key messages civil servants hope to convey to the government through the upcoming rally in Vienna?
**Interview with Civil Servants’ Union Representative: Preparing for the Upcoming Rally in Vienna**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. With the upcoming rally in downtown Vienna expected to attract around 30,000 participants, what are the primary concerns that civil servants are looking to address during this demonstration?
**Union Representative:** Thank you for having me. Our main concern is the urgent need for a fair salary agreement. After eleven years without a significant wage protest, this rally marks a crucial moment for us. Civil servants are facing rising costs of living, and the anticipated salary increase is insufficient to keep up with inflation, which is currently at 3.8%. We’re here to ensure that our voices are heard and that the government understands the gravity of the situation.
**Interviewer:** What specific outcomes are you hoping to achieve from this rally, especially considering that there has only been one salary round so far?
**Union Representative:** We’re demanding a negotiation that reflects the true cost of living adjustments necessary for our members to thrive, not just survive. Our internal discussions have shown significant dissatisfaction among employees. We aim to push for a salary agreement that provides real relief, and if necessary, we won’t rule out the possibility of strikes to make our demands clear.
**Interviewer:** The GÖD and younion have partnered for this cause, but there seems to be no precise salary demand yet. How is that ambiguity impacting your strategy moving forward?
**Union Representative:** While we might not have specified figures right now, we’re united in our goal to secure fair compensation. Our collective strength lies in our unity and willingness to advocate for our basic rights. As the rally approaches, we will continue to develop our proposals, using the momentum from this demonstration to negotiate effectively with the government.
**Interviewer:** what message would you like to convey to the public and potentially to those who might oppose these protests?
**Union Representative:** To the public, we hope you understand that this isn’t just about civil servants; it’s about the broader implications for all workers facing similar struggles. A robust public service is crucial for a healthy society. We ask our fellow citizens for their support as we fight for what is just and necessary. If anyone opposes our efforts, we encourage them to engage in dialog about the importance of fair wages for everyone.
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**Debate Question:** Given the significant turnout expected for the rally, what do you think are the potential impacts on public services if the civil servants’ demands are not met? Could this lead to further escalations, such as strikes, and what consequences might that have for everyday citizens?
