Transnet will meet with trade unions at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration on Monday morning in a bid to end the national strike over a wage dispute.
Transnet spokesperson Ayanda Shezi said in a statement that the parastatal would meet with the unions – the United National Transport Union (Untu) and the SA Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) – for “facilitated sessions” at the CCMA “as part of efforts to resolve the current impasse in the wage negotiations”.
“Transnet continues to engage with organised labour, to find an amicable solution to the ongoing industrial action, which has a profoundly negative impact not only on employees and the company, but on the economy as well,” said Shezi.
We are hopeful that the meeting will bring parties closer together in reaching an agreement that balances the needs of workers while protecting Transnet’s continued sustainability.”
She said Transnet’s current offer for wage increases included:
- An increase of 3% for grade levels G and H
- An increase of 3,5% for grade levels I and J
- An increase of 4% for levels K and L
- An ex-gratia payment of R5 000 (before tax).
“Since tabling its initial offer in July, Transnet has made concerted efforts by improving its wage offer a further four times. Salary costs currently make up 66% of total operating costs, which is not sustainable,” said Shezi.
“Our broad objective remains to drive investment and growth, which is ultimately the only way to sustainably reduce household financial insecurity as it would increase opportunities for more South Africans to find work in a vibrant and growing economy.
“We urge workers and union leaders to seriously consider the offer currently on the table.”
