81.   While most employers say they are more afraid of liability from sexual harassment claims, some are stepping up efforts to head off countersuits.

82.   Both positions were eliminated within weeks, moves prompted solely by economics, his former employers say.

83.   But the employers still say IG Metall must agree on ways to cut costs.

84.   Employers also say they want employees to accept a reduction in wage bonuses for working late hours.

85.   Employers have said any salary increases would have to be at the expense of cuts in vacation pay.

86.   Employers said the right to education with full pay would be too expensive.

87.   Employers say they cannot afford such a raise and have called on the government to inject extra cash into the health service.

88.   Employers say meeting union demands would kill jobs at a time of slowing economic growth.

89.   Employers say the plan will lower productivity and could actually lead to layoffs since some businesses would fail, which would leave workers without jobs.

90.   Employers also said the Bavarian deal should be accepted across the country.