It is tragic that more than 600 mine workers have been sacrificed by a trade union due to their ignorance and bravado (“Amplats fires 600 striking mine workers,” May 21).
We have just seen a five-month-long strike on the platinum belt where the union was forced to settle on the increase that was offered in the first place. The workers will take almost a decade to catch up on the monies they have lost. I regularly hear stories from employees (both in groups and individuals) of how the unions have not activated their cases of dismissal soon enough, or have let them down at the last minute when it was necessary to go to arbitration or the labour court. Like any other business, unions take money from their members on a weekly or monthly basis, and they make profits from these contributions. It is incumbent upon the unions to employ competent people who both know and understand the labour law. Far too many officials seem more interested in furthering the cause of the union than hel...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.