Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Nkosiphendule Kolisile is concerned about developments in the mining sector.
The recent break down of talks between the Chamber of Mines and labour is a serious setback to the objective to return the sector to normality.
It also has huge implications for our drive to curb unemployment and set Gauteng’s economy on a job-creating path.
Underground mining activity accounts for 32 000 jobs in Gauteng alone. The sector also contributes 6% to the province’s total revenue and 31% to our export basket.
The department is concerned that the protracted turmoil in the mining sector could lead to mine closures and retrenchments, which would have debilitating socio-economic consequences for the province as a whole.
The department therefore urges the two parties to go back to the negotiating table and seek an amicable solution to the impasse.
We will continue to encourage engagement and dialogue among the stakeholders in order to resolve the challenges currently facing the sector.
The success of our jobs creation efforts rest not only on creating new jobs in the economy but also on our ability to work together to save the jobs that are threatened due to the hostile global economic environment.
The department remains committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders in order to realise the objectives to create decent employment and inclusive economic growth in Gauteng.
Enquiries:
Phindile Kunene
Tel: 011 085 2538
Cell: 082 494 2409
E-mail: Phindile.Kunene@gauteng.gov.za
Province
