FULDA (dpa-AFX) - Collective bargaining has started at Deutsche Post for around 160,000 parcel carriers, letter carriers and other employees in Germany. At the start on Friday in Fulda, it became clear that the ideas of management and employee representatives are still far apart. The Verdi union backed up its demand for 15 percent more pay. This was "necessary, fair and feasible," said Verdi negotiator Andrea Kocsis. "Employees urgently need compensation for inflation and they also expect a share in the company's success." A "permanent financial recognition for their work" is overdue, she added.

The Post Board disagrees and considers such hefty income increases "unjustifiable." A company spokesman said a balance must be struck between wage increases and economic viability, thereby safeguarding jobs. "Already today, the significantly declining earnings in the mail and parcel business are no longer sufficient for the necessary investments," the Post spokesman said. Despite the differing positions, he said the company expects to make progress in the next round of negotiations "in fair and speedy talks." The bargaining parties will meet again on January 18 and 19./wdw/DP/ngu