Transnet declares force majeure as workers down tools

The state-owned ports and freight rail operator says the industrial action will force it to scale down portions of its operations.

Transnet’s revised offer on Wednesday of a 3% wage increase has been rejected by both the SA Transport and Allied Workers Union and the United National Transport Union.

Unions are demanding a much higher figure of 13.5%.

“However, and to the extent possible, we will attend to invoke contingency plans and source external stand-in / temporary  resources to ensure that the operations continue across the various terminals,” Transnet said in a statement on Thursday. 

This is the third time in the past 15 months Transnet has been forced to declare force majeure due to its inability to fulfil a contract.

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“Should the strike extend beyond the anticipated period of one week, Transnet will assess the impact of the strike on its operations and the force majeure event declaration,” the statement continued. 

“Transnet Port Terminals is open to having consultations with customers who are willing to engage with our executive team to find practical means aimed at overcoming the effect of this force majeure event to ensure acceptable levels of our respective performance and contractual obligations and cargo  handling efficiencies across our terminals is maintained.”