The first ever strike by Gautrain workers is officially over, after the United National Transport Union finally agreed to accept an offer by Bombela Operating Company.
The nearly three-week long Gautrain strike is officially over as all parties have reached an agreement.
On Monday, 13 August 2018, the United National Transport Union (UNTU) agreed to an eight percent wage increase, offered by Bombela Operating Company, which operates the train line. The hike will be backdated to 15 July 2018, while the housing allowance has been increased from R750 to R900 per month.
Gautrain workers downed tools on 30 July 2018, demanding a ten percent basic salary increase, once-off R20,000 bonuses, a R1,600 housing allowance, an increase in night work transport subsidy of R64 per nightshift and 50 percent medical aid contribution.
On Sunday, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) intervened again, tabling a new offer to UNTU, which was finally accepted
UNTU is affiliated to the Federation of Trade Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) and represents 90 percent of the 350 Gautrain workers.
“The company has agreed to give our members an 8% increase‚ back dated to July 15‚” said FEDUSA spokesperson Dennis George.
George added that: “There will also be an incentive bonus of R5‚000‚ which is to be paid in December‚ and another bonus linked to key performance areas of the company. This will be paid out in July 2019‚”
The ending of the strike will bring much relief to commuters who were left stranded as train operations were limited.
Thabo Baloyi
t.baloyi@politicalanalysis.co.za
