Lungile Ntimba
THE National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) averted a potential strike and signed an 18% inflation wage increase for the lowest-paid workers at Bidvest South Africa Container Depot (SACD).
Numsa general secretary Irvin Jim said the union, which represents 150 of the approximately 250 staff members, was on the verge of a strike at Bidvest because of the deadlock and the workers were preparing to get a strike certificate.
“The major success which we achieved is that we negotiated for 32 workers who were earning R7289 per month and were graded A1, to be converted to A3,” Jim said.
Jim added that they were able to point out that because the grade A1 workers had the same responsibilities and duties as workers in grade A3, therefore it is then fair for them to earn the same salary.
He said the deal had the potential of collapsing Grade A1 in order for workers to be converted to A3, which resulted in their wages being increased by 18% for the first year of the agreement.
“They will have their wages increased every year for the next three years until their salaries match up to A3 workers, who are currently earning R12 028. This is a major achievement for the union.” Jim said.
Jim said they’ve reached an agreement of 6% increase across the board for the rest of the workforce, However, other employment conditions and benefits remain unchanged.
“The National Forum will be set up within 6 months of signing the agreement to deal with Company PPE, Medical aid and company transport,” Jim said.
He also highlighted that the settlement agreement is valid for one year from 1 July 2024 until 30 June 2025 and it will apply to all Bidvest workers.
He further said it is important that all Bidvest employees join the union because they are a “militant union” with a proven track record for benefits and conditions for workers.
“We continue to be a sword and a shield for workers and their families because we always fight for a living wage” Jim.
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