Spoornet and unions reach agreement

THE RAILWAY workers' strike - which threatened to be a national shut-down - was in fact a rather patchy affair, with about 2 000 members of only one union downing tools. The final agreement between Spoornet and the unions makes provision for a reduction in sick leave, and increase in home ownership assistance, and an increased medical aid subsidy - the latter two being the original bones of contention between SATAWU and the railway authorities. It was also agreed to reduce working hours, overtime and Sunday time - all following the provisions of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act.