Transnet strike will continue until we are satisfied – UNTU
A
labour union representing striking Transnet workers says the nationwide
industrial action will continue until it's satisfied with management's pay
offer.
This is while government says it’s extremely concerned about the negative impact caused by the Transnet strike on the South African economy.
Public Enterprises minister Pravin Gordhan, Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi and Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza intervened at the meeting with Transnet and the worker unions on Wednesday to end the crippling wage strike.
It says it will be in the best interest of the country that the parties return to the negotiation table and adopt an approach which balances the rights of workers, against the long-term stability and growth of Transnet and the economy as a whole.
READ: Transnet, unions to resume wage talks on Wednesday
UNTU's General Secretary Cobus van Vuuren, who is part of the wage negotiations, says unions are aware of the economic impact caused by the strike.
"We are not oblivious to the fact that many employees in different industries are affected and we are trying our utmost best to get on common grounds with Transnet and trying to find a reasonable solution as quickly as possible. We have all-night sessions, we have 24 hours sessions."
He says the nationwide strike will continue until they are satisfied with the offer put on the table by Transnet.
"So the most pressing issue in the negotiations when it comes to salaries is of course, across the board increase. Transnet is offering between 4 to 5 percent and our members are adamant that the increase must be aligned with the consumer price index and the cost of living. The actual cost of living is not just 7.6 or 7.9 per cent as it runs currently, is much higher."
