Recognition of the Works and Personnel Council Award: Commendable dedication by the Land and DGB towards democratic values and equality within the organization
In the DRK district association Sangerhausen, employees are enjoying the benefits of clear limits for night and weekend shifts, as well as a quarterly shift plan, which have been instrumental in maintaining a balance between work, family, and care. This initiative, led by the works council, has also ensured fair, age-appropriate working hours for all employees.
Elsewhere, the works council of GETEC has been honoured with an innovation prize for their forward-thinking approach to co-determination in digital transformation. They have established a framework agreement for the introduction and application of IT systems, promoting acceptance, transparency, and efficiency in digitalization.
In Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, three Betriebs- und Personalräte were awarded for their efforts in promoting fair working conditions, living co-determination, and equal opportunities. The award ceremony was attended by over 160 guests, including Labor State Secretary Susi Möbbeck, Susanne Wiedemeyer (head of the DGB state office in Saxony-Anhalt and deputy chair of the DGB district of Lower Saxony - Bremen - Saxony-Anhalt), and Sarah Schulze (state commissioner for women's and equal opportunities policy in Saxony-Anhalt).
The works council of the Harztheater received the main prize for their determined commitment to co-determination and securing jobs. During the conversion from a purpose association to a gGmbH, they successfully negotiated a personnel transition agreement that ensures all jobs, maintains collective bargaining agreements and existing contracts, and excludes dismissals until December 31, 2029.
Co-determination, the involvement of employees in important decisions, is considered a guarantee for crisis resilience and successful business. According to State Secretary Susi Möbbeck, it increases productivity, fosters job satisfaction, and ensures early involvement of employees in finding practical solutions for employment-related topics. Susanne Wiedemeyer, DGB state leader, highlighted that Betriebs- und Personalräte have positive effects on wages, training and further education, and the compatibility of family and career.
Betriebs- und Personalräte play a significant role in ensuring acceptance of measures, particularly in matters related to flexible working hours or home office. They are essential in ensuring that employees have a say in important decisions, whether in the company or in the administration.
Susi Möbbeck emphasized that the strong voice of Betriebsräte benefits both employees and companies. She stated that co-determination is lived democracy and deserves recognition. Wiedemeyer echoed this sentiment, saying that the commitment of Betriebs- und Personalräte is living democracy and deserves recognition.
In Sangerhausen, the works council has also introduced the works agreement "Duty and vacation planning," which gives employees the freedom to choose between a 4-day and 5-day week, reliable rest periods, and family-friendly early shifts. This initiative underscores the commitment of the works council to ensuring a healthy work-life balance for its members.
The name of the working group that received the special award for their efforts towards more equality at the DRK-Bezirksverband Sangerhausen is not mentioned in the provided search results. However, their commitment to equal opportunities is a testament to the importance of co-determination in fostering a fair and inclusive workplace.
