Unions to meet as bus drivers’ strike drags on
Trade unions and bus companies
have not been able to break the impasse as negotiations continue to try and
bring an end to the three-week long strike by bus drivers.
Unions are now accusing the employer of negotiation in bad faith.
The strike has left thousands of commuters across the country stranded, and having to scramble to make alternative arrangements for transport.
Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant attempted to broker an agreement, with talks lasting late into the night last week, but failed to help reach an agreement.
Following the latest deadlock, unions begged Transport Minister Blade Nzimande to step in.
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He conducted talks on Thursday, but these also deadlocked.
National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi says the five trade unions involved in the strike will meet on Monday to discuss the way forward.
'Unfortunately we failed to meet each other when the Minsters of Labour and Transport called a meeting and as a result the strike continues," Hlubi says.
Hlubi says the bus companies have not moved since their deadlock and strike started.
"We have moved from the initial 12 % to a two year agreement with a 9% increase, so basically we've made very significant moved while the employers made no moves," she explains.
Hlubi says a major sticking point remains the dual driver system, with companies still refusing to pay the second drivers full wages.
"Companies don't care the horrible conditions that are placed on bus drivers. These conditions have an impact on road safety, showing how little they care.”