NUM rejects Eskom's wage offer
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) have rejected Eskom's latest wage offer of 5%, saying it would drive thousands of Eskom employees into poverty taking into account the continued rise of Consumer Price Index (CPI).
NUM Energy Sector Coordinator, Paris Mashego, said they were shocked by the declaration by Eskom management that 42% of the estimated profit of R28.2 billion will be set aside as bonuses.
"It is our conviction this declaration is aimed at rewarding Eskom directors who are credited with the so-called elimination of load shedding," Mashego said in a statement.
According to Mashego, Eskom executives would receive 25%, managers would take home 16,7% while NUM members receive 12% with this declaration.
The NUM demands an increase of 18% for the lowest paid workers and 15% for the highest paid workers.
""We call upon this hostile employer to compensate workers accordingly in terms of their contribution to the profitability of the company. While we accept bonuses, which is a once-off payment, we demand a salary increase which is a long-term earning and pensionable," Mashego said.