Workers in the metal and engineering industry would strike on Monday, a trade union said.
”The metal and engineering industry must brace itself for a crippling strike from Monday, with a possible far-reaching effect on the country’s economy,” said Tim Kruger, spokesman for the United Association of South Africa (Uasa).
Kruger said Uasa was joined by four trade unions — including Solidarity and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa — in declaring notice to strike.
He said Uasa served its 48-hour notice to strike to about 150 employers at 5pm on Wednesday.
”This means that our members will embark on strike action as from Monday,” he said.
The duration of the strike would depend on continuing negotiations. Employees wanted a 10% wage increase and a commitment they would be empowered through employees’ share ownership programmes.
Kruger warned his members to refrain from acts of violence and vandalism during the strike. Uasa is a Federation of South African Trade Unions affiliate. – Sapa