Metrobus unionists will stay away from work in Johannesburg again on Wednesday as their labour dispute has not been resolved, a shop steward said.
”Unfortunately the employer decided to suspend the negotiations,” said the South African Municipal Workers Union’s (Samwu) Dion Makhura after talks with management at the city’s bus company on Tuesday.
With loud singing in the background, he was speaking after meeting at a depot where they had consulted members for a mandate on how to go forward.
”We are continuing with the action tomorrow,” said Makhura.
A Metrobus spokesperson was not immediately available to comment, but earlier advised bus commuters to make alternative arrangements as the strike intensified.
”We unfortunately have to inform all commuters and contract clients that we will not be able to render any reliable bus services as a result of this strike and urge all to make alternative transport arrangements during this period,” he said.
Samwu Johannesburg secretary Dumisani Langa said the main issue was that employees within a certain salary band were unable to move up to the next pay notch, regardless of their experience.
”Within job categories there are three notches — minimum [pay], medium and top notch and most are receiving the minimum, no matter the number of years of experience,” said Langa.
”The minimum notch is around R7 021 and the majority are all there. You don’t move up, even if you have 20 years,” he said. — Sapa