Protests lead to RBM closure
Ongoing violent protests lead to closure of Richards Bay Minerals
FEARS for employee safety has led to Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) shutting down its operations, other than essential services.
In a statement issued over the weekend, RBM General Manager Mpho Mothoa said despite numerous engagements with community structures, a series of disruptions as a result of protests and road blockages left the situation volatile
‘RBM ensures that community engagement and the safety of all our employees and contractors is a high priority.
‘We are committed to using the existing dialogue mechanism, the only recourse to a sustainable and consensual resolution of the current level of tension,’ said Mothoa.
We appreciate the support and assistance received from the South African Police Services and will keep the channels of engagement open until we find a resolution.
‘We will continue to monitor and review the status once the situation stabilises.’
In a memo sent to staff, Mothoa cited issues that led to the closure decision, including:
•Recent instances of damage and destruction of property;
• Employees being unable to access site during times of public violence to safely operate the business;
•Employees refusing to come to site when the road has been declared safe (even with a police escort).
Based on these, Mothoa said until further notice: only business critical and essential services will continue; normal shift crews will not be required as plants will be placed on care and maintenance; all deliveries to site will be suspended; employees will be required to take leave during this period.
‘We will continue to monitor and review the status once the situation stabilises,’ said Mothoa.
