Taps will not run dry – Rand Water

JOHANNESBURG — Rand Water addressed a notice by the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) workers who have vowed to picket outside the Labour Court in Braamfontein on August 20.

“Rand Water remains committed to current salary negotiations and met with representatives of its employee-affiliated trade unions today. No agreement has been reached yet about the percentage increases to salary, housing allowances and the incentive bonus,” said media relations manager, Justice Mohale.Mohale confirmed that the Minimum Services Level Agreement which excludes essential employees from taking part in industrial action was not a matter of dispute.

Rand Water assured residents that a back-up plan is in place to ensure that services are not interrupted should the strike action be carried out by workers.

“Rand Water will continue to provide high quality potable water to all its customers and remains committed to reaching an amicable resolution to the current salary negotiations,” continued Mohale.

On August 19, SAMWU said in a statement that “The picket will be in support of the union defending our members’ right to strike after Rand Water attempted to interdict our strike. The matter is set to be heard at the Labour Court at 09.00. Our constitutional right to strike cannot be taken away by an arrogant and exploitive employer who does not value the work done by its employees.”

“When taps run dry, the public should ask Rand Water why it has failed to offer workers substantial increases,” stated the union.

SAMWU is demanding a 10 percent increase for lowest paid workers, nine percent for middle income workers and eight percent for supervisory workers. A further 12 percent incentive bonus and R2150 housing allowance are being demanded.

Related articles:

• Rand Water undertakes R1.3 billion pipeline project

• Rand Water works on pipes in Alberton

• Bridge the Gap: Water everywhere but not a drop to drink