German hospital staff set for strike on Thursday as dispute escalates

Hospital staff, care workers and emergency responders are set to go on strike in Germany on Thursday in the latest round of walkouts by public sector workers amid a brewing wage dispute, reported dpa.

The verdi trade union on Monday called for a strike amid collective bargaining negotiations with the federal government in Berlin and local authorities across the country.

It warned that German residents should expect disruption to care in hospitals and other facilities on Thursday.

"Most people in this country are aware of what employees in hospitals and care facilities, psychiatric wards and emergency services do for society every day," said union official Sylvia Bühler.

Verdi is demanding an 8% pay rise - worth a minimum of €350 - for public sector workers, as well as higher bonuses and three additional days off.

Employers have rejected the demands as unaffordable ahead of a further round of talks from March 14 to March 16.

The negotiations cover employees across a wide range of sectors, with a strike by airport staff having caused major disruption at Munich Airport last week.