North West Premier Thandi Modise has welcomed the decision by the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) to call off a strike at two Anglo American Platinum mines in Rustenburg.
North West Premier Thandi Modise said that AMCU’s decision confirmed by Amplats on Tuesday is encouraging and is a positive development towards ending conflict in the platinum mining sector.
“The suspension of the strike should be followed up with a demonstration of commitment by all stakeholders to peaceful co-existence and building a relationship that is based on trust and respect. The employer and trade union organisations should avoid any actions that might adversely affect this relationship," added Premier Modise.
Premier Modise also called on parties to give the peace agreement brokered by Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe a chance.
Deputy President Motlanthe was tasked by President Jacob Zuma to help restore peace and stability to the mining sector.
Five thousand and six hundred workers at the Thembelani and Khuseleka 1 mines near Rustenburg went on strike yesterday, July 8 to demand that suspended AMCU officials be reinstated.
Anglo American suspended the officials last week for participating in an illegal protest that prevented other workers from returning to the surface from their underground shift.
The decision to suspend the strike comes just a day ahead of wage talks in the gold sector scheduled for Thursday, 11 July.
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele, Spokesperson
Tel: 018 388 3705
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax: 018 388 3157
E-mail: LKgwele@gmail.com
