JOHANNESBURG, September 26 (ANA) - A national strike in the security sector was looming after wage talks had collapsed, unions warned on Thursday.
The seven trade unions are demanding higher wages and the introduction of hospital medical cover for security guards. They have slammed employers' offer of a 1.1% increase which they say translates into a 23 cents per hour wage increase for Grade C guards.
"Considering the offer on the table, it is clear employers are not committed to playing a meaningful role in substantially improving the living conditions of the security officer. For far too long greedy captains of industry have been laughing all the way to the bank while workers drown in debt attempting to make ends meets and failing miserably," the unions said in a joint statement.
They said after negotiations collapsed when unions rejected the 23 cents offer on September 19, industry protocol stipulated that both parties participate in a compulsory mediation process, set to take place on October 1-2.
Should the mediation process not yield an agreement, a mutual interest dispute will be referred to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
"If that also fails to produce a settlement, a certificate entitling workers to go on strike will be issued," said the unions.
The wage negotiations commenced on August 15 at the bargaining council.
- AMA
