STEELPOORT – Samancor Chrome Limited confirmed that the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has issued the company with a strike notice.
Numsa members of Samancor Chrome engaged in a strike on Monday and continued with the support of the National Union of Mine Workers (Num) on Tuesday.
“The notice follows protracted negotiations between the company and the union. Samancor is continuing negotiations with the union with the aim of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement,” read a press statement issued by Samancor Chrome.
Angry Numsa and Num members gathered outside the gates of the mine to protest with placards reading, “Lets crucify those who think having debt is economic freedom; 13 per cent increases and R4 000 housing allowance.” Others read, “Atchar Palane; money or no work and the young lion Malema is invited to come and address TFC unit tomorrow.” One angry striker told Steelburger/Lydenburg News that nobody plans on working at a mine forever and it would be better for workers if they were provided with money to build their own houses, and not be provided housing that doesn’t belong to them. “How do these people think? How do you live on the money that they provide?” a striker asked the newspaper.
While negotiations are underway, the strike is believed to continue until Wednesday.
“Samancor Chrome believes that industrial action is not the means to resolve matters which can rather be resolved in an amicable manner by means of constructive engagement,” the statement concluded.
