The Minerals Council of South Africa has expressed concern over the potential effects of secondary strikes on the gold and platinum industries.
The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) has served letters of intention for a secondary strike with effect from night shift 28 February to 7 March.
This against a background of low commodity prices, rising input costs and an increase in depths while grades continue to decline in the industry.
“It is unfathomable that Amcu would willingly call for secondary strikes in an industry that is already in jeopardy. This would undermine employment and the livelihoods of millions of dependants,” said Minerals Council CEO, Roger Baxter, in a recent statement.
Employment in the gold sector has declined by 10% since 2017.
Mining companies have acknowledged the letter and are moving to avert the strike by all means possible.