German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) is more unpunctual than it has been for a long time, and according to a key trade union, staffing problems are as much to blame as numerous construction works and the overloaded rail network.

‘The shortage of skilled workers has also affected [Deutsche Bahn],’ the deputy head of the railway and transport union, Martin Burkert, told dpa. ‘A lack of staff is already leading to considerable restrictions in rail traffic and limited services on trains.’

‘The millions of overtime hours can no longer compensate for possible train cancellations. There is an acute need for action.’

In a letter to personnel director Martin Seiler, the union admitted that the number of employees had increased slightly: ‘Nevertheless, we are now receiving urgent warnings from our colleagues almost daily about a shortage of staff who are ready to work.

‘Entire shifts in train operation, maintenance or signal boxes can no longer be filled.’

Source: The Namibian Press Agency