The New Age reports that Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) president Joseph Mathunjwa said on Tuesday in relation platinum negotiations that prospects for industrial action were par for the course during wage talks.  

He reported that the atmosphere in which the talks were being held between Amcu and Anglo American Platinum, Impala Platinum and Lonmin was frosty.  “Negotiations don’t have cosy environments.  Everyone is fighting for their positions and their own interests.  It’s a tense atmosphere.”  Mathunjwa commented that the union’s declaration of a dispute was indicative of the its rejection of the mining companies’ offers tabled thus far.  Amplats has apparently tabled an offer of R600 or 6%, Lonmin R750 or 6% and Implats R650 or 6% in the first year of the deal.  Amcu has reverted to its 2014 demand of R12,500 a month for a basic salary for underground workers.  The union is also demanding a 15% salary hike for its highest paid members.  Lonmin spokesperson Sue Vey moved to diffuse tensions with Amcu, saying a dispute was part and parcel of negotiations.

• Read this report by Bonolo Selebano in full at The New Age

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