The United Association of South Africa (Uasa) has declared a dispute with the Chamber of Mines over wage increases and will know on Thursday whether to strike.
”We will obtain a final mandate through a strike ballot,” said Tim Kruger, a Uasa official.
Kruger said the Chamber of Mines has not revised an offer it made last week of 5% for workers in some categories and 4,5% for other workers.
Uasa is demanding an 8% increase.
”Uasa has already informed the senior commissioner [at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration] that we are not accepting the offer and we are declaring a dispute,” he said.
Earlier on Monday, Solidarity said trade unions had already asked mediators for a strike certificate on Friday.
”However, mediators decided on a last effort today [Monday] to find a solution,” said spokesperson Reint Dykema.
”If the deadlock is not resolved today, the mediators will issue a strike certificate. The trade union then will give notice of the commencement date for the strike.
”The gold-mining industry last saw strike action in 1987 and it would be a pity if a strike proved to be the only way out,” said Dykema. — Sapa