Plain language news from January 10 2024 at 725 pm

Plain language news from January 10, 2024 at 7:25 pm TVthek

ZIB and information | News in simple language

News in simple language

In Germany, passenger locomotive drivers have been on strike since this morning. An emergency Deutsche Bahn timetable is in effect until Friday evening. For example, during a strike, people do not work because they demand more wages. There have been disputes between the “Deutsche Bahn” and the “German Locomotive Drivers' Union” for weeks. This includes, among other things, working time. The locomotive drivers' union called for a reduction in working hours. “Deutsche Bahn” offered options. The train drivers' union criticizes this offer. They believe the salary would be reduced. Hundreds of thousands of passengers are affected by the train drivers' strike. The “Austrian Federal Railways” also canceled trains to Munich or terminated at the Austrian border.

Israel allows a UN operation in the north of the Gaza Strip. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, confirmed this after a conversation with Israel yesterday. The UN is a global organization that promotes peace and security. The UN operation is intended to ensure that Palestinians return safely to the north of the Gaza Strip. Among other things, Blinken called on Israel to be a “partner” with the Palestinian leadership. And thus be ready to support your people to live side by side with Israel in peace. Blinken is trying to end fighting between Israeli soldiers and Hamas fighters. Fighting has been ongoing since October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack from Israel.

The court case against former Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz of the ÖVP continued today. This is the accusation of making false statements to the Ibiza investigation committee. An investigative committee is a control option for the National Council. Kurz is said to have downplayed his influence in the appointment of the ÖBAG supervisory board. His former employee Bernhard Bonelli is also accused. ÖBAG supervisory counselor Iris Ortner was questioned as a witness today. ÖBAG manages investments in Austria, such as “Österreichische Post” or “Casinos Austria”. A supervisory board controls a company. Iris Ortner is the daughter of industrialist Klaus Ortner, a major donor to the ÖVP. Ortner says she sees no connection between her father's donations and her own order.

The Lower Austrian furniture store “Interio” is insolvent. Insolvency means that a company can no longer pay outstanding payments. Nearly 80 employees were affected. “Interio” has 7 branches. The reason for the inability to pay is that the furniture store collected much less money. The reason is the Corona crisis. Many stores in Austria had to remain closed for a long time during the Corona crisis. “Interio” was unable to compensate for these losses through Internet sales. Heating costs have also increased. Additionally, the rent has increased. Rent is the money business owners pay landlords.