67 Gautrain security guards could face retrenchment

Click here to read the response from Bombela.

According to reports, Gautrain’s black economic empowerment partner, Strategic Partners Group (SPG), might have to retrench 67 security guards unless the employees waiver a R1 500 performance bonus.

The quarterly bonus was apparently cancelled following the expiration of the workers’ contracts in January this year, and reports alleged that Strategic Partners Group had communicated this incentive bonus to the guards.

The Bombela Operating Company which operates the Gautrain was contacted for comment on this issue and referred Sandton Chronicle to SPG, whose spokesperson was not available for comment.

The issue has led to unprotected strikes by Gautrain security workers with support from the United National Transport Union (Untu). General secretary of the union, Steve Harris, said they did not want to be the cause of mayhem for Gautrain passengers and apologised for any inconvenience that may occur.

He added, “Untu, however, has no option but to advise our members to take strike action if Bombela continues to be evasive with the truth.

“Bombela is seeking to short-change its hard working and hyper-efficient employees when they offered a three percent pay increase during the 2016/2017 salary negotiations.” The union was seeking a 15 percent increase for its members.

The issue of the non-payment of performance bonuses follows a recent fare hike for Gautrain services effective from 1 June which includes a R30 increase for a trip to OR Tambo International Airport.

This is a developing story and an update will follow.