Mining unions, Chamber clash over wage offer

The NUM and AMCU yesterday declared a dispute in the gold mining industry. 

The matter will now be lodged with the CCMA but the NUM's Livhuwani Mammburu says the Chamber has already indicated it has no intention of bettering its offer. 

"The arrogance of the Chamber of Mines makes us take a decision to mobilise members on the ground, in preparation for a national strike because they made it clear that even if we declare this bid or go to CCMA - the offer will stand," he said.

The Chamber of Mine's Elize Strydom however says they are committed to finding a settlement and to avert a strike in the industry, which is already under massive pressure to retain jobs.

"We will be there and continue to engage in a professional manner and with a positive attitude. Still focus on trying to find a wage agreement that we can all live with," she said. 

(File photo: Gallo Images)