The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) welcomed the signing of an above inflation wage agreement between its members and Gautrain operator, Bombela Operating Company (BOC), in a statement on Thursday.
Early this month, Gautrain workers affiliated to Numsa, downed tools over a 13% wage increase demand from the train operator.
Numsa General Secretary Irvin Jim, said the agreement was for a period of one year from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
It includes a 6.8% wage increase across the board, which is above the current inflation rate of 5.1%; an increase in the night shift transport subsidy from R105 to R112; the night shift allowance moving from R35 to R37, a housing subsidy of R1 300 up from R1 210, as well as a KPI bonus incentive that has increased by 6,8%.
Jim said as a result of this agreement, the union was effectively calling off the month-long strike as of Friday, July 26.
“NUMSA wishes to thank its members for their courage and their determination. They were loyal to their demands and they showed gallant resistance, against an onslaught from an inflexible employer. Their strike pushed the employer from the initial offer 5,3% to 6,8%. Numsa also wishes to thank its officials for their hard work in negotiating this agreement. We continue to ensure that workers receive above inflation increases to mitigate against the high cost of living,“ said Jim.
At the start of the strike, Gautrain announced that its services would continue as normal during evening peak hours despite the strike, with Gautrain spokesperson Kesagee Nayager saying commuters’ travel plans would not be hindered.
“I can confirm that both the bus and train services are operating according to schedule. We are not experiencing any delays and will keep our customers updated,” Nayager said at the time.
The Star