NUM Sibanye-Stillwater Gold members reject insulting wage offer, refer dispute to CCMA

JOHANNESBURG – The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Sibanye Stillwater Gold branches have overwhelmingly rejected the company's latest wage offer, calling it insufficient to meet the rising cost of living and a failure to recognize the value of their members' labour.

The rejected offer included a 4.5% wage increase, a R50 increase to the Living Out Allowance (LOA), and a R30 increase to the medical aid subsidy.

“The NUM Sibanye-Stillwater Gold branches view this offer as an insult to the hardworking men and women who generate immense wealth for the company under hazardous conditions beneath the earth’s surface,” said Mpho Phakedi, NUM General Secretary and Chief Negotiator at Sibanye-Stillwater Gold Operations. “The proposed increases do not keep pace with the rising cost of living, and our members deserve better.”

NUM Core Demands:
The NUM is demanding a serious and meaningful offer that reflects the significant contribution of its members. Key demands include:
Category                                          Year 1                      Year 2              
Category 4-8 Wages                      R1,500 increase      R1,500 increase
Officials, Miners & Artisans'         8% increase             8% increase
Wages
Maternity Leave                           Six months' full pay (up from four
months)

Year 3

R1,500 increase

8% increase

Next Steps: Conciliation at the CCMA
In a united front, the NUM, along with other trade unions (AMCU, UASA, and Solidarity), has formally referred a dispute of mutual interest to theCommission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

The NUM remains committed to constructive dialogue and will continue to engage with the company through the CCMA process to reach a fair and mutually acceptable agreement.

The NUM will not back down in its fight for fair wages and better
working conditions for Sibanye-Stillwater Gold Operations employees. Our branches stand united in their determination to fight for the rights and dignity of their members.

For more detailed information, please contact:

Mpho Phakedi, NUM General Secretary, 082 882 3452
Boitumelo Tlhapi, NUM Mining Coordinator at Sibanye-Stillwater Gold Operations, 073 413 6797
Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257

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