It has long been a tradition: The incumbent chancellor speaks at IG Metall’s union conventions. Following five consecutive visits by Merkel, Olaf Scholz (SPD) continued this tradition and traveled to Frankfurt.
Christiane Benner, First Chairwoman of IG Metall, welcomed the chancellor by pointing out the “incredible need for solidarity” in the country and asked, “What are the answers for our colleagues in the workplaces?”
She then quickly turned to the issue that has been preoccupying thousands of metalworkers for months: the high electricity prices that are choking many energy-intensive businesses and thus jeopardizing jobs. “We expect you to make a statement here and now: How and when will we get the transitional electricity price?” said Benner.
IG Metall has been calling for this reduced electricity rate for energy-intensive industries for months—so that steel mills, aluminum smelters, and foundries can have a future in Germany.
As soon as the chancellor entered the Frankfurt exhibition hall, dozens of metalworkers chanted “Steel is the future” and “Transitional electricity price now!” Throughout the chancellor’s visit, they displayed their demand on a banner several meters long.
No Commitment on the Bridge Electricity Price
Scholz addressed the issue in his speech. He noted that the traffic-light coalition’s energy policy had brought energy costs back under control following the 2022 price shock.
The Chancellor did not want to make a clear commitment to the bridge electricity price. Instead, he announced a “combination of many individual measures.” The bottom line, he said, is that this will enable companies to weather the difficult phase.
His conclusion on the topic of electricity prices: “We will find a good solution.” Even in the 21st century, there will be “an industrial future in Germany.”
More Rights for Works Councils
Scholz received applause for stating that he considered raising the retirement age “out of the question.”
The chancellor also received support on the topic of employee participation rights in the workplace. “What can you promise us there?” a delegate asked. “I can promise what’s in the coalition agreement,” Scholz replied with a smile—but then turned serious.
The ability of works councils to provide for training and continuing education must be expanded. More rights to take the initiative are needed here, he said. And: “We’ll get something done.”
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