Gautrain workers set to down tools
United Transport & Allied Trade Union (Untu) says
negotiations with Gautrain over wages have reached a deadlock and members are
preparing to strike from Monday.
Gautrain's operating company, Bombela, and Untu returned to the negotiating table on Saturday after the union earlier issued it with a strike notice.
Untu's Steve Harris says their members will not be reporting for duty on Monday.
"It's unfortunate that labour and management could not find a collective agreement and the parties left yesterday with the understanding that we are in deadlock and strike starts tonight at midnight.
“Employees will gather 100m from the Midrand Train Depot until their employer meets their reasonable demand. During the course of Monday, they will remain outside the depot,” Harris says.
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Harris says they are willing to resume wage negotiations with Bombela if the company puts an improved offer on the table
"We have told management and availed ourselves at any time to resume discussions if they believe they have a better offer on the table.”
Unions are demanding a 10% increase, while Bombela is offering workers 8.5% with paying workers a bonus.
Untu is also demanding housing, transport and night shift allowance allowance, as well as medical aid contribution.