Durban Chamber concerned about effects of Numsa strike

THE Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC said it is concerned about the effects the National Union of Metal Workers of SA (Numsa) strike will have on South African businesses and entrepreneurs in the metal and engineering sector.

This statement followed the strike during which more than 2 000 Numsa members made their way from King Dinuzulu Road to the Durban City Hall on Tuesday, October 5. The organisation demanded an 8% wage increase for workers.

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According to the CEO of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC, Palesa Phili, the strike will be detrimental to the country’s economy by further delaying economic recovery and threaten business productivity, as well as investor confidence restoration.

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“Businesses are facing difficult challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the July unrest. As a business community, we are still trying to recover in order to sustain business operations and deliver on their business obligations,” she said.

Phili said the organisation believes the gathering could be a Covid-19 super-spreader.

“We are on a drive to encourage vaccination so we can get the economy back on track. As the Durban Chamber, we are in support of employees and their right to express their grievances, however these need to be addressed in a safe and conducive manner,” said Phili.

The Durban Chamber urged all parties concerned, including Numsa union leaders, employers and employees, to resolve the matter as speedily and as swiftly as possible, through peaceful negation.

“The longer this continues, the more damage will be caused on the business community production, affecting livelihoods. Should it continue, this will translate to employees not fulfilling their roles, responsibilities and duties in the supply chain model within these sectors,” said Phili.