German train drivers vote for strikes

BERLIN (AP) — A union representing train drivers at Germany’s national railway says its members have voted overwhelmingly to strike over a pay dispute.

According to news agency dpa, GDL union spokeswoman Gerda Seibert said Thursday that 91 percent of members voted in favor of strike action in a ballot.

No date was immediately set for walkouts though union leader Claus Weselsky said there won’t be any before Monday.

GDL is seeking a 5 percent pay increase for Deutsche Bahn’s train drivers, along with shorter working hours.

The dispute has been complicated by a standoff between GDL and another rail workers’ union, EVG. GDL is claiming the right to negotiate pay for other railway staff traditionally represented by its larger rival, as well as for train drivers.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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