Numsa workers embark on strike action at Ekapa

NATIONAL Union of Metalworkers of SA (Numsa) members employed at Ekapa mines embarked on an indefinite strike on Monday in demand of a 17 percent wage increase.

The union has also called for an entry-level salary of R17,500 for all workers and for housing allowances to be increased to R2,850 and medical aid to increase to R2,650.

Numsa general secretary Irvin Jim stated that the employer had only put an offer of a 6.5 percent increase, across the board over the next three years, on the table.

“Ekapa has pleaded poverty and claims they cannot afford our demands. However, C band category workers were given 17 percent increases. They have blasting tickets and the company justified the increase for them saying they want to retain their skills. Numsa condemns mine management for dividing workers.

“They have provoked this strike by paying workers low wages.”

Jim indicated that the lowest-paid worker was earning an entry level salary of R5,700, while enabling the company to generate billions of rand in profit.

“R5,700 is a starvation wage - that is why our members withdrew their labour. Our members are earning peanuts, yet are expected to risk their lives underground mining for diamonds.

“We demand that the agreement be backdated to March 1. Ekapa mine management can make a better offer and prevent this strike. We remain open to further negotiations.”

Jim was aggrieved that despite serving Ekapa with a 48-hour notice to strike, their members were threatened that they would be locked out if they embarked on strike action.

“We condemn the management of Ekapa mine for attempting to subvert the constitutional right to strike by threatening workers with a lockout.

“Numsa represents 689 members out of a workforce of just over 1,000 workers. Our members remain resolute regardless of the attempts to intimidate them and will continue with strike action until all demands are met.”

Ekapa general manager Howard Marsden stated that when efforts to resolve the impasse deadlocked, the matter was referred to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) for further resolution.

“Conciliation was held on June 27, but the matter remained unresolved. After this, Numsa referred a picketing rules dispute to the CCMA and facilitation was held on July 25. The picketing rules were issued on August 4 and Numsa issued a 48-hour notice to strike on August 7.”

Marsden indicated that the United Association of South Africa trade union, which represents “a significant number” of employees, accepted the three-year wage increase of 6.5 percent in February.

“Unfortunately, despite numerous opportunities and extensions provided, Numsa has failed to meet the deadlines set during the wage negotiation process.”

Marsden believed that their proposal was a “fair and sustainable solution” for their valued employees.

“We remain committed to engaging in constructive dialogue to find a resolution that benefits all parties involved.

“Ekapa recognises the importance of fair and transparent negotiations. The company is committed to maintaining open lines of communication with all relevant stakeholders and remains focused on ensuring the well-being of employees. We remain dedicated to maintaining a safe and productive working environment, while also fostering a positive relationship with all unions involved.”

Marsden stated that no striking Numsa members would be allowed to return to work until the strike was abolished.

“As per normal practise the strike will be on a ‘no work, no pay’ basis.”

Video: Soraya Crowie