Germany’s leading trade union confederation, the DGB, has strongly criticized proposals from CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann regarding the potential abolishment of telephone sick leave certificates.
Anja Piel, a member of the DGB’s executive board, stated that the suggestion is “completely baseless and without any foundation” and reflects a disconnection from the realities faced by working people. She argued that Linnemann is misinterpreting his role by aligning with prominent employer representatives and implicitly accusing all employees of abusing the system.
Piel emphasized the proven effectiveness of telephone sick leave certificates, citing their contribution to improved healthcare access, reduced stress for employees and protection against contagious illnesses in crowded waiting rooms. She countered the narrative surrounding potential abuse by highlighting a more pressing concern: the increasing number of employees attending work while sick due to rising workloads, thereby endangering themselves and colleagues. Piel asserted that employees require employers who prioritize workplace health and safety, rather than facing unsubstantiated accusations.
Linnemann raised the issue during a closed-door meeting of the CDU in Rhineland-Palatinate, advocating for reforms to the social security system in light of rising labor costs. He questioned the practicality of telephone sick leave, suggesting that individuals should be required to visit a doctor when unwell. His position aligns with that of Steffen Kampeter, head of Germany’s employer association, who has repeatedly called for its abolition.