IG Metall is calling for nationwide protests in the auto industry

More than 280 actions planned

Whether Wolfsburg, Zwickau, Stuttgart, Saarbrücken or the Ruhr area: IG Metall has called on employees of car manufacturers and suppliers in all federal states to send a clear signal. The motto is: “Future instead of clear-cutting – solidarity is our strongest brand.”

According to the information, there will be various activities in more than 200 locations. These include internal company meetings, active lunch breaks, star marches and public rallies. The union expects more than 100,000 people to take part.

It is complained that employees in particular have to bear the consequences of the industry crisis. “We are currently experiencing an unprecedented attack on employees in the automotive industry,” said IG Metall boss Christiane Benner with a view to the day of action. This has to stop. Not only that car manufacturers and suppliers in this country have already cut thousands of jobs. The union also fears further cuts for employees and demands: “Hands off the 35-hour week!”

Investments required

There is also a demand that companies invest more heavily in their German locations again. For example, in areas such as battery production, autonomous driving and modern production facilities. In addition, more models are needed that bring large volumes and ensure greater capacity utilization in the factories. “Investments in locations instead of windfall for shareholders!” is the union’s slogan.

VW works council leader Daniela Cavallo also took politicians to task. »What is now needed as acute aid are four issues that politicians must finally regulate: First: countervailing tariffs against Chinese hybrids. Secondly: something finally has to change when it comes to industrial electricity prices. And down for a change! Third: We finally need an EU-wide subsidy policy that is worthy of the name. China, Canada, USA – everyone is doing it. And with us the most we give is alms. And fourthly: Politicians in Berlin need to be honest about the issue of partial retirement. Does she now want to scrap the block model, as the Pension Commission is proposing, or not?”