The Citizen reports that ArcelorMittal SA (AMSA) has accused the National Union of Metalworkers (Numsa) of failing to address numerous acts of violence and intimidation against its non-striking workers.
To ensure the safety of employees and the security of its business premises, the company refused to accept a memorandum from demonstrators who marched to its offices in Vanderbijlpark on Tuesday. AMSA’s Tami Didiza indicated: “ArcelorMittal South Africa did not permit a march to deliver a memorandum at the company’s offices. This is because the strike action initiated by Numsa has been marred by numerous acts of violence and intimidation of non-striking employees, despite the strike and picketing rules agreed between the company and the union.” The company said it addressed these concerns with the union, but, to date, there have been no real or tangible efforts to stop these acts. “These unlawful acts include the shooting of an employee, who is currently recovering in hospital, multiple cases of assault or attempted assault of non-striking employees,” said Didiza. The Labour Court has granted AMSA an urgent interdict prohibiting acts of violence and intimidation. On Friday, AMSA tabled two alternative final offers, subject to certain conditions, for union consideration. These comprised a 6% increase on all remuneration elements, including allowances, standby and medical aid, plus a R5,000 once off ex-gratia payment; or a 6.5% increase on all remuneration elements, but without any cash payment. But both Numsa and Solidarity have indicated they would not move from their previous demands of a 7% increase with a R5,000 once-off cash payment.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Narissa Subramoney at The Citizen
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