Gautrain claims 'external agendas' as strike continues

Gautrain has asked workers to think clearly about the impact and motive of the strike action as it claims that "external agendas" might have ciphered in.

"We further call on our workers not to be influenced by external agendas that may be at play and unfortunately not be in their best interests," says spokesperson Kesagee Nayager.

The transport provider's parent company, Bombela Operating Company, has reached a deadlock with United Transport & Allied Trade Union (UNTU).

Workers are demanding increases in their basic salary and various benefits which equates to 19.5%.

Bombela presented UNTU with two wage proposals which were declined.

Workers downed tools on Monday.

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An increase of 8.6% which includes a 7% increase in basic salary, a housing allowance of R804 per month and an incentive bonus up to R8000 per employee.

The second offer presented equates to an 8.4% increase, which is made up by an 8.5% increase in basic salary, a housing allowance of R813.75 per month and no incentive bonus.

"We are deeply concerned by the potential loss of income by our workers, and we call on our workers to carefully consider the company's offer that remains open," says Nayager.

The company also confirmed that no trains will be on the tracks this weekend due to maintanance work.