The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) on Thursday confirmed it had served diversified mining company Kumba Resources with a notice for strike action.
“After consultation with our members we have opted to strike, because we are of the view that the company is not prepared to improve the conditions and wages of workers.
“Consequently, on Sunday our members will down tools. We are also encouraged by the fact that Solidarity has taken a similar decision on this matter, thereby making this a collective action by workers at Kumba,” NUM chief negotiator at Kumba Eddie Majadibodu said.
The outstanding issues on the table include: NUM’s demand that Kumba pay 70%, compared with the current 60%, for maternity leave; that the company develop social-plan guidelines; offer appropriate time for sick leave in order to enable ill workers to recuperate prior to returning to work; and to offer wage increases of 9% at higher grade and 10,5% at lower levels compared with the company’s 6,5% offer.
“We remain open to discussions with the company in order to find an amicable solution to this current impasse, be it now or during the course of the strike,” Majadibodu said.
Over 4 000 members of the NUM will join the strike that will commence on Sunday at 6pm. — I-Net Bridge