Germany: Public sector strikes to start

WORKERS at a university clinic in the western German city of Essen walked off the job yesterday, the first act in a series of public sector labour stoppages that are set to spread across the country this week due to a labour dispute. About 200 workers were expected to walk off the job in Essen, according to a strike organiser. However, labour union ver.di said it would ensure that enough workers remained available for medical emergencies. The strikes are expected to spread today when about 200 000 teachers across the country join in. The workers are striking for a 5.5 percent wages hike, among other demands.– Sapa-dpa