Unions, Sibanye on brink of deal to end 3-month strike
Striking workers affiliated with the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) look set to return to work next week.
Workers at Sibanye-Stillwater's gold operations downed tools earlier this year over failed wage talks.
Initially, the unions wanted an increase of over R1 000 for surface and underground miners and 6% for artisans, miners and officials.
But the company refused to back down from its R850 offer.
After intense deliberations and a mass meeting on Friday, union leaders confirmed getting a mandate from workers to accept a new proposal.
This includes a R1 000 for the first year, a R900 increase in the second year and a R750 increase in the third year.
Miners and artisans will receive a 5% increase.
Sibanye spokesperson James Wellsted said the company is eager to get operations back on track.
"When we proposed the section 150 intervention through the CCMA, we did say we would commit to whatever the outcome of that process was so we are very pleased that the unions and that their workers have given them a mandate.
"It's been a very difficult time for all stakeholders, especially employees who haven't received wages for over three months so the sooner we can get operations up and going again, I think the better it will be for everyone who depends on these operations," Wellsted added.
NUM general secretary William Mabapa admitted the settlement is less than ideal.
"To be honest with you, we are not happy with the offer.
"That is the most weakest agreement we have compromised to sign but at the end of the day, the workers are on strike for three months, there is no work, no salaries so we do what is responsible. They are also not happy," said Mabapa.
It's understood unions will spend the weekend going through the proposal with a fine-tooth comb before signing.
ALSO READ:
