NUM says Exxaro workers may strike

More than 7 000 workers at miner Exxaro may strike in the coming week over plans to rationalise the business, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said on Sunday.

The union said it was awarded a certificate of non-resolution allowing it to strike after talks with the company had failed.

“Over 7 000 workers belonging to the National Union of Mineworkers at Exarro are readying themselves for a massive strike action in the week ahead,” the union said in a statement.

Exxaro, which mines for coal, zinc and mineral sands, said in November last year that it may cut up to 300 jobs as it seeks to improve productivity and reduce costs of services and operations. The company employs about 10 500 people.

“We are meeting our members for a vote on the strike action on Tuesday and already many have said there is no need for a vote as there is agreement to ground Exxaro,” said Khaya Blaai, the NUM’s head for collective bargaining.

Exxaro could not immediately be reached for comment.—Reuters