Local News
Strike fears as NUM seeks 60% pay hikes─── 07:44 Mon, 20 May 2013
Rustenburg - The prospect of fresh strikes in the already embattled mining sector resurfaced yesterday after representatives of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said it will seek pay rises of up to 60% from gold and coal producers.
This comes as mining companies battle higher costs and falling prices, and as the country seeks to avoid a repeat of last year's strike action that claimed the lives of 50 people and cost the industry and economy billions in lost revenue and production.
Reuters reports that the NUM is mobilising to fight a challenge to its once near monopoly in the sector from the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu), which has poached tens of thousands of NUM members.
NUM wants an entry-level minimum monthly wage of R7 000 for gold and coal surface workers and R8 000 for those underground. The union also wants 15% increases for more experienced and skilled workers.
Reuters
This comes as mining companies battle higher costs and falling prices, and as the country seeks to avoid a repeat of last year's strike action that claimed the lives of 50 people and cost the industry and economy billions in lost revenue and production.
Reuters reports that the NUM is mobilising to fight a challenge to its once near monopoly in the sector from the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu), which has poached tens of thousands of NUM members.
NUM wants an entry-level minimum monthly wage of R7 000 for gold and coal surface workers and R8 000 for those underground. The union also wants 15% increases for more experienced and skilled workers.
Reuters
