Numsa reaches a wage agreement, Easter travels to continue

According to Wilson, talks between the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) and bus passenger sector employer associations were constructive. Wilson shared that both parties committed to putting an end to the planned strike.

Numsa shared that Easter travel plans for commuters across South Africa will not be hampered. The Union shared that the news came after a revised salary offer from employer associations.

The two parties reportedly held meetings over two days. Employer associations offered a percentage increase of 4.5% across the board. Wilson shared that numerous concerns were up for negotiation.

He added that the pressing matter of wages and salaries was the critical issue addressed with Numsa. Wilson stated that bus drivers wanted to confirm what they are going to earn, considering the current economical climate.

“Workers want to see what they are going to get out, especially in today’s economic situation, and so we do find that some critical issues that might be important might get rolled over…but there is always opportunity for them to be addressed once things improve,” said Wilson.

It’s not over yet – the protest may happen

Numsa’s Phakamile Hlubi-Majola shared that there is a possibility of a future strike. Hlubi-Majola did confirm that the Easter weekend is safe but strike action could happen.

Meanwhile, Numsa’s Phakamile Hlubi-Majola warned that while the Easter weekend may be safe, the possibility of future strike action remained. The Numsa spokesperson added that the next few days will be spent engaging with members across Mzansi.

Meetings with employers are expected to happen towards the end of the month, reports EWN.

“We will be spending the next couple of days engaging with our members all over the country to get a mandate on the proposed offer. We will meet again with employers on 22 April to give them feedback,”

Phakamile Hlubi-Majola, Numsa spokesperson