Mario Reiß, chairman of the Transport Workers’ Union (GDL), has sharply criticised Deutsche Bahn’s (DB) opaque and inefficient financial practices. In an interview with the Tagesspiegel Background Verkehr & Smart Mobility, Reiß accused the railway company of establishing “money‑laundering”‑like structures over the years. He explained that DB had internally charged its own services and organized dozens of subsidiary companies – over 1,000 at one point, now around 600 – all designed to split up funding cycles and funnel public money into the system. “This has to change” he said.
Reiß also pressed DB CEO Evelyn Palla for more decisive action, urging her to stop making as many promises as her predecessor, Richard Lutz, and to implement real, incremental changes. He praised Palla’s willingness to delve into detail and to delegate responsibility, noting that her recent decision to halve the senior management team should improve operational results and productivity, with the expectation that the long‑distance network will thrive on its new trains and modern technology.
Reiß praised Palla’s decision to separate from cargo chief Sigrid Nikutta and finance director Karin Dohm, saying consistency is key to management success. “I would not describe her approach as rigorous; being inconsistent or acting non‑existent would cost us money and impede progress” he said. He expressed frustration that Dohm had been brought in, remarking that during the hiring process the board had already suspected her suitability. “They selected a woman who apparently is not fit for the role, convinced the supervisory board to appoint her, and now taxpayers are again paying the price. I expect plenty of disputes over this issue to continue”.