[miningmx.com] – THE horse-trading ahead of new wage deal for workers at Northam Platinum’s Zondereinde mine truly got underway today with the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) refusing a 0.5% improvement on the platinum firm’s last offer, but responding with an as yet undisclosed counter offer of its own.
Only recently, the NUM moved from its initial position made in mid-2013. Whilst the rejection of its latest offer will be a disappointment for Northam, the fact that NUM has counter offered in quick-fire style suggests the sides may yet find common ground. The sense is that extending the strike well into 2013 will have serious consequences for the mine, company and employees.
In a statement, the NUM said Northam had improved its offer to 9.5% for core workers and 9% for non-core workers for category 2 to 8 employees over two years. In addition, a 9% living-out allowance was proposed.
A R3,000 per employee in category 2 to 8 sweetener was also offered in an effort to soften the blow of lost wages since November 3, a period of time in which some R100m in salaries had been sacrificed by workers.
Ecliff Tantsi, chief negotiator for the NUM at Northam said the union had rejected the wage offer following a mass meeting.
“The NUM had a mass meeting with the members today and the members rejected the offer, however, they also made an alternative proposal. This alternative proposal cannot be divulged until it is presented to the management,” it said.
It’s likely that Northam will be pressed to conclude a double-digit wage offer, a quantum of increase the platinum sector has agreed it would not breach in this round of wage negotiations.
Northam’s response is critical given that NUM rival, the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) today signalled its intention to issue 48-hour strike notices within a week.
Northam said that it would respond to the offer through the Council for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) as required by law. “It will make an announcement at the appropriate time,” Marion Brower, spokesperson for Northam said via e-mail.
