Sasol, PetroSA and Engen trade unions have declared a dispute with their employers after wage talks broke down, Solidarity said on Friday.
”The current wage offer is a slap in the face and does not in the slightest attempt to pay employees in the sector a living wage,” said Solidarity spokesperson Jaco Kleynhans.
”In addition, it is still 2,4% lower than the current inflation level that was calculated at 8,4%.”
Food inflation was standing at 13,6%, he added, saying it placed further pressure on employees.
”Trade unions in the petroleum sector of the National Bargaining Council for the chemical industry declared a dispute following the failure of negotiations with employers in the industry after two rounds,” said Kleynhans.
”Sasol, PetroSA and Engen are among the largest employers in the sector.”
Employers were offering a 6% wage increase while trade unions are demanding a 15% hike, said Kleynhans.
Solidarity submitted a consolidated wage demand alongside the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers’ Union and the South African Chemical Workers’ Union. — Sapa