SABC workers embark on nationwide strike
Workers belonging to Broadcasting, Electronic, Media & Allied Workers Union (Bemawu), the Communication Workers Union (CWU), as well as members of middle management at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) have embarked on a nationwide strike.
Bemawu's Hannes du Buisson says workers are demanding a wage increase of 10%, while the public broadcaster is only offering a hike of 4.5%.
Du Buisson says the union’s door remains open to the SABC should it want to continue with negotiations.
"We believe there still is room to settle the dispute and we await an invitation from the SABC. There are certain important events that will happen over the next few days. All workers might not be on strike at the same time. Workers can choose to strike for 1 or 2 hours on the first day, maybe on the second day stay away completely. It's their prerogative.”
The SABC says there is money for wage increase above the 4.5% it is already offering, as it is mired in a financial crisis.
The SABC recorded a loss of R74.4m in the first three months of the financial year.
Several roads are closing around the SABC’s offices in Auckland Park due to a protest by striking workers.
Roads that are blocked include Henley and Artillery.