Mine owners, NUM set for showdown
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Labour Correspondent
THE mining industry is edging closer to its first strike in 16 years, after labour and mine owners hardened their stances yesterday ahead of the looming showdown.
The Chamber of Mines, the body representing some gold and coal mines, said no further improvements could be made on wages and other benefits.
"The last drop has been squeezed out of the companies; nothing more can be offered," said chamber negotiator Frans Barker.
National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) spokesman Moferefere Lekorotsoana warned: "Come Sunday the wheels in the mining shafts will not be turning."
The strike could cost the industry about R125m in revenue daily, while workers stand to lose R50m a day. As most of the gold is exported, SA stands to lose about R125m in exports daily.
The strike is likely to affect AngloGold, Harmony, Gold Fields, and coal producers Kuyasa and Ingwe.
Since wage talks started, gold companies have improved their initial offer of 8,75% to about 9%. AngloGold offered workers increases of between 9,5% and 10%. But all these offers were rejected by the union. The only company within the chamber that will be unscathed by the strike is South Deep.
Companies appear most unwilling to concede to the NUM's jobgrading demand, saying it would add substantially to the wages bill.
Jul 24 2003 07:48:23:000AM Nontyatyambo Petros Business Day 1st Edition
Profile Group (Pty) Ltd. has taken care in preparing all information on this website, but does not accept any liability for errors or out-of-date information.
