National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) on the Potential Closure of Assmang Beeshoek Mine

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is deeply concerned about the future of the Assmang Beeshoek Iron Ore mine and the livelihoods of its members. The mine, located near Postmasburg in the Northern Cape, is facing a critical threat of closure, with devastating consequences for the region.

Notice of Potential Retrenchments

Assmang has served a Section 189(3) notice in terms of the Labour Relations Act, indicating its intention to begin consultations regarding the possible retrenchment of 688 workers. This potential mass job loss is a direct result of the financial struggles faced by ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA), the mine's sole major client.

The NUM views this as more than just a corporate decision; it is a direct blow to hundreds of families in the Northern Cape and a significant threat to the already high unemployment rate in the province. The closure of Beeshoek Mine would be a body blow to the local economy, and we cannot allow a single corporate decision to erase nearly 700 livelihoods.

The Union's Position and Demands

Our foremost priority is to safeguard the jobs, livelihoods, and dignity of our members. We are committed to a process that upholds the principle that retrenchment must be a measure of absolute last resort.

To that end, we demand full transparency from the employer. We expect full disclosure on:

• The commercial reasons for the proposed retrenchments and why other alternatives were rejected.
• The rationale for considering "Care and Maintenance" instead of outright closure.
• The precise number of employees who will be affected, which is currently estimated at 688.
• The impact on the community and existing long-term contracts, especially those related to outsourced services.
• Proposed selection criteria and details regarding severance pay, as well as benefits like medical aid and long-term policies.

The NUM will engage in consultations to explore all possible alternatives to retrenchment, including:

• Hiring and overtime freezes.
• Redeployment within Assmang or other ARM joint ventures.
• Reskilling opportunities and voluntary separation packages.

We will ensure the employer provides robust social support structures for our members during this period. No worker will face this process alone.

We remind the employer that this consultation process must be meaningful and conducted in good faith. Any attempt to fast-track or undermine the process will be legally challenged through the CCMA or Labour Court.

Way Forward

The NUM will engage meaningfully in the forthcoming consultations. However, we are clear that we will robustly challenge any attempt at unfair job losses. Our members will be kept fully informed of every development, and we will consider collective action if the employer acts in bad faith. We also anticipate that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) will play its role as per Section 52 of the MPRDA.

Message to Our Members

To our members at Beeshoek Mine: Stay united and calm. Your union is at the table fighting for you. We will ensure you are fully informed of every development. Together, we will fight for fairness, transparency, and to make sure that retrenchment is truly the last option explored.

For more information, please contact:

Mosepedi Sanane, NUM Kimberley The National Union of Mineworkers

Regional Secretary, 060 550 2758

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340216