Annual General Meeting of the GdP: Challenges and Honors in Oldenburg!

Annual General Meeting of the GdP: Challenges and Honors in Oldenburg!

The annual general meeting of the GdP district group Oldenburg-Stadt/Ammerland took place on September 30, 2025. This important event was characterized by a high level of participation, and numerous invited guests also contributed to a lively exchange. The chairman Nils Padeken opened the meeting in the presence of speakers such as Björn Meyer, a member of the state parliament, as well as Thomas Weber, the head of the police department, Andreas Kauß from the PHPR and Bernd Dreier, the district group chairman. GdP Lower Saxony reported that the main topics of discussion were the heavy workload, the shortage of staff and the lack of opportunities for promotion. These concerns reflect the challenges many public sector workers are currently facing.

Another important point at the meeting was the upcoming staff council election in 2028. Here, representatives of public sector employees are elected, a process that is regulated by the special staff representation laws in Germany. Wikipedia explains that the elections take place every four years and play an important role in representing employee interests. The search for interested candidates for the coming election shows the GdP's commitment to continue to be a strong mouthpiece for its members in the future.

Honors for long-standing members and a look into the future

Another highlight of the meeting was the honoring of long-standing members. Siegfried Gerlach was particularly honored for 65 years, Uwe Kehmeier and Günther Mierzwa for 50 years each, and Jörg Uchtmann and Heiko Claußen for 40 years of membership each. These awards underline the connection and long-standing loyalty of many members to the union. The cashier Leon Weiß also presented the cash report and demonstrated the solid financial basis of the GdP district group.

In addition to the honors and reports, important topics from specialist conferences in the state district were also discussed. The focus was particularly on new technologies such as Tasers and the need for cut protection clothing. The in-depth discussion of such topics makes it clear that the GdP always has the well-being of its members in mind and is committed to their safety and equipment.

Sociable atmosphere after the official part

After the official part of the meeting there was a shared meal, which created a pleasant atmosphere and good conversations. Here, those present were able to exchange experiences in a relaxed atmosphere and discuss further ideas for the challenges ahead. The participation from the state reception authority also shows how important a strong network within the GdP is.

Overall, the annual general meeting was a successful event that not only addressed current challenges, but also set the course for the coming years. The GdP district group Oldenburg-Stadt/Ammerland continues to be committed and future-oriented, which will be of great importance in the final spurt to the staff council election in 2028.