The German Locomotive Drivers’ Union (GDL) has welcomed the decision by Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing to remove Richard Lutz from his position as CEO of Deutsche Bahn. The union released a statement Thursday evening describing the move as “an important signal of the Minister’s ability to act and clear willingness to address the acute problems at DB.
GDL Chairman Mario Reiß stated that the dismissal of Mr. Lutz was “a necessary consequence of years of mismanagement that has led Deutsche Bahn deeper and deeper into the current crisis”. He described the decision as “correct and unavoidable” asserting that railway workers and customers have long suffered under a management that has made flawed decisions at their expense. The GDL cited overloading, staff reductions and a lack of appreciation as realities within the system, while alleging mismanagement and misplaced priorities have hindered rail development.
However, the GDL emphasized that simply replacing the leadership will not be sufficient to resolve the deep-seated issues plaguing the railway. The union argues that comprehensive and sustainable measures are required, specifically focusing on the rehabilitation and separation of financial flows, modernization of infrastructure and a fundamental reform of the company structure. The union also suggests a review of the railway’s current structure as a joint-stock company is necessary.