Bus strike unions optimistic demands will be met

There is no end in sight to the national bus strike as the industrial action by workers from over 60 bus companies continued into its third day on Friday.

The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu), The National Union of Metaworkers of South Africa and the Tirisano Transport Workers Union resumed talks with employer bodies for the way forward.

Satawu’s Zanale Sabela said deliberations between unions and bus management were expected to resume around 10am on Friday.

Sabela said they were hopeful that something will be put on the table.

On Thursday, negotiations went on the whole day with the parties remaining mum on discussion details.

Sabela said unions were hopeful and optimistic that bus companies will accept their demands as unions within the bargaining council were working together, ‘speaking with one voice’ as their objective was to achieve more for workers.

Bus drivers downed tools on Wednesday demanding a 12% wage hike. Employers are offering 7%. The drivers are demanding full pay for dual drivers traveling long distances with a night shift roster change. The current roster stands at 8pm to 3am and the bus drivers are demanding it be changed to 4pm to 6am.

Bus drivers also demand a minimum basic wage of R 8000 per month as opposed to the current R 6 000.

The third day strike action means bus commuters will see no change to the snaking queues and will continue to dig deeper into their pockets for alternative transport.

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