GroundUp reports that on Thursday, striking workers from Robertson Winery and surrounding farms marched to the company’s office.  

The workers, who are members of the Commercial, Stevedoring, Agricultural and Allied Workers Union (Csaawu), have rejected the R400 pay increase offered by management and are demanding a "living wage" of R8,500 per month.  The strike by about 200 workers is in its thirteenth week.  Union representative Deneco Dube said three key demands were that the company sign a 'peace clause' undertaking not to victimise striking workers when they return to work, payment of the usual annual Christmas bonus, and backdated wage increases to May.  David Everson and his wife both work for the winery and they have two children in school.  He said:  “We are struggling – borrowing, and friends giving us food here and there.  We have also been receiving food hampers from Csaawu, but the food is all used up.”  Another worker said some frustrated long-time workers had resigned and claimed their benefits.  Csaawu is appealing for donations to support the striking workers.

• Read this report by Tariro Washinyira in full at GroundUp

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