German rail strike in second day

BERLIN, Germany—German train drivers are on strike for a second day, causing scores of cancellations around the country.

German rail operator Deutsche Bahn was able to keep some trains running, but the dpa news agency reported Thursday that two-thirds of its long-distance trains and between 40 per cent and 85 per cent of its local trains were cancelled, depending on the region.

The GDL union, which wants a 5 per cent pay increase and shorter working hours, said last week talks with Deutsche Bahn had broken down.

The main sticking point has been GDL’s insistence that it negotiate not just for train drivers but for other railway staff who are traditionally represented by a larger rival union.

The strike is due to end Thursday night for passenger trains and Friday for freight traffic.