Solidarity signs wage agreement with Sasol

Trade union Solidarity has signed a 12% wage increase for its members with Sasol Mining, the union said on Thursday.

“Solidarity yesterday [Wednesday] signed a wage increase of 12% for all its employees following wage negotiations at Sasol Mining in Secunda,” said spokesperson Jaco Kleynhans.

The union entered into negotiations with the energy company over a month ago.

“Workers at the Brandspruit, Middelbult, Bosjesspruit, Twistdraai Complex, Syferfontein and Surface coal mines did not go on strike,” he said.

“The increase is effective from July 1 across the board,” said Kleynhans.

As part of the agreement, a task team consisting of representatives from the mine and the union had been established to investigate employees’ housing allowances. It was expected to give feedback in September.

“Employees’ shift allowances were also increased.

The increases are also effective from this month,” said the union.

Sasol spokesperson Johann van Rheede said: “I confirm the 12% wage increase with Sasol Mining’s Solidarity members as well as an agreement to increase shift allowance.

“Solidarity requested to be involved in a task team to investigate the affordability and availability of housing in Secunda. Sasol has agreed to put a task team together.” - Sapa