Security for Train Conductors: EVG Threatens to Block Regional Rail Services
Following the fatal attack on a train conductor aboard a regional express train in early February, measures to improve safety have been under discussion. The railway workers' union EVG is now demanding results – and is threatening to block work schedules.
The railway union EVG has threatened to withhold approval of work schedules from January onwards unless the federal government moves swiftly to toughen penalties for attacks on train conductors. "The promised legislation introducing harsher sentences for attacks on train personnel must go before the Bundestag before the end of this year, otherwise we will bring operations to a standstill in January," union leader Martin Burkert told Bild am Sonntag.
Burkert expressed disappointment with the federal government. "From the political side, there were concerned faces and big words, but no action," the union leader said. Transport Minister Bilger recently announced that discussions on the matter within the federal government would take place soon.
Fatal Attack in February
Following the fatal attack on a train conductor in February, the federal government indicated that railway employees would be included as a particularly at-risk professional group in Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig's (SPD) draft legislation on tougher sentences for attacks on paramedics, firefighters, doctors and nurses.
