Satawu said it is unfortunate that the strike is likely to take place when people are expected to travel over the Easter weekend however, they have been left with not choice.
Image: Sora
The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) is threatening to protest following a deadlock in its wage negotiations that could impact Easter weekend travels.
The union's Amanda Tshemese confirmed that a certificate of non-resolution has been issued this week.
"If the employer wants to meet our demands on the streets, we are ready. Our demands are valid and necessary to all bus drivers in the country," she said.
In a statement, the union said wage negotiations are underway with the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council following a dispute declared in February where the employer failed to meet the union's demands.
"We met with the employer and commissioner for conciliation. We regret to inform our members and workers that the management did not table any revised offer. This is an insult to labour and bus drivers who are already underpaid, under attack and struggling," Tshemese said.
The union is demanding a two-year wage agreement to be implemented from April 1, 2026. Furthermore, the Satawu wants a 6.5% wage increase across the board for the second year, an R800 adjustment for the double driver allowance and a private hire allowance of R500 per day for 100km round trip or less and R900 over 100km.
"For the second year, we want a 7.5% wage increase across the board, 6pm to 6am working hours and primary healthcare," Tshemese said.
The employer is offering a 3.25% for year one and 3.5 for the second year from April 1, 2026.
The employer is further offering contact penalties to increase to R1,500 for year 1 and by R2,000 for year two. The employer is offering a night shift allowance and tool allowance.
Tshemese said there is a 30-day cooling off period and the union will serve the employer 48-hour notice before embarking on a strike.
"We want to make it clear that we are open to going back to the negotiating table only if the employer tables something that is more meaningful and reasonable to workers," she said.
Tshemese said it is unfortunate that the strike is likely to take place when people are expected to travel over the Easter weekend however, they have been left with not choice.
IOL