EWN writes that wage negotiations in the bus passenger sector have deadlocked following a series of failed talks. This after bosses in the sector offered workers organised by transport union, South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) four times less than their wage demands. Negotiations for the 2024/2025 financial year kicked off in January. SATAWU has rejected the wage offer of 4%, describing it as an insult to workers.
The union initially tabled demands for a 15% increment across the board, as well as a minimum wage of R12,000 a month. Other demands include four months of paid maternity leave and full compulsory healthcare for all workers. The matter is now headed for mediation, with the union issuing an ultimatum to the sector to rethink their offer before the next meeting on 4 March. SATAWU said a failure to table a revised and reasonable offer could result in strike action which could coincide with the Easter holidays. The union represents almost 5,000 workers in the sector.
by Nokukhanya Mntambo