Numsa workers are continuing with strike action at Ekapa mine until their demands are met. Picture: Soraya Crowie
WORKERS at Ekapa mine believe that they were maltreated after they were shot at with rubber bullets and stun grenades were fired during protest action last week.
“The police are supposed to protect us. We will continue protesting until our demands are met,” the workers added.
A number of workers were arrested on charges of public violence and appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court on August 11.
National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) members are demanding a 17 percent wage increase and entry-level salaries of R17,500 for all workers, as well as increases in housing and medical aid allowances.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Molefi Shemane said 38 men, between the ages of 26 to 63, were arrested on August 10 on charges of public violence, picketing outside their picketing zone and obstructing traffic.
“Arrests were made and the situation was normalised,” said Shemane.
He added that one person sustained minor injuries on his legs. “He received medical treatment and was discharged from hospital on the same day.”
Shemane stated that, according to Ekapa mine management, there was no damage to property.
“No stones were thrown and no worker, staff or management have been threatened or placed in danger.
“Investigations revealed that no one has been prevented from entering the work premises. This was also confirmed by Ekapa mine management.”
He indicated that the South African Police Service in Kimberley would continue to monitor the situation.
“Ekapa mine management confirmed that they are satisfied with the police involvement in handling the situation.
“At present, the situation is calm and under control.”
Ekapa mine general manager Howard Marsden explained that “significant police intervention” was needed to prevent public disturbance and property damage.
“As a result of violent action by some protesters, striking National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa (Numsa) members were arrested and were released on bail of R500 each. We are highly appreciative of the police who are continually monitoring the situation and providing safety to the community and employees of Ekapa,” said Marsden.
He added that Numsa-affiliated Ekapa employees who participated in strike action were locked out of the premises, as per the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) regulations.
“It must, however, be noted that Numsa members who have signed indemnity waivers are not locked out and are at their posts.”
Marsden stated that production had not been affected by the strike.
“Ekapa has engaged contractors and replacement labour to perform necessary tasks, in line with the CCMA award. In total, 1,200 employees out of a workforce of 1,600 are at their posts.”
He added that the company remained committed to open and honest communication with the union.
“We urge Numsa to engage in constructive dialogue to reach a resolution that supports fair and sustainable remuneration for our employees. Ekapa remains resolute in its offer of a 6.5 percent increase per annum over the next three years.”
Marsden stated that Ekapa was paying entry-level salaries of approximately R13,000 per month.
“The R5,700 that was quoted in the media as the minimum entry wage refers to a learnership stipend of R5,858 applicable only during a six-month training period for school leavers and young job seekers.
“Ekapa implemented a 6.5 percent salary adjustment for all levels of employees and did not approve a 17 percent salary adjustment for C band category staff.”
He reminded workers that strike action was prejudicing them financially.
“A ‘no work, no pay’ policy has been implemented where workers are forfeiting two months’ worth of production bonuses in line with company rules.
“Striking employees are not eligible for a share of profit disbursements for the new financial year.”
Marsden indicated that eligible employees received a discretionary payment of R13,581.06 as a share of profits totalling R17.5 million that was made in the previous financial year.
“Ekapa firmly asserts that its employees are compensated in accordance with labour legislation and industry practice salary levels, with the 6.5 percent proposed wage increase representing fair and sustainable inflationary covering remuneration practices for our employees.”