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Trade union Solidarity said today that a possible strike in the metal and engineering industry could be the end of the industry’s bargaining council (the MEIBC).

This follows after wage negotiations in this bargaining council came to a standstill today.

About three weeks ago, trade unions and employers reached a deadlock with the MEIBC regarding wage negotiations in the industry.

According to Marius Croucamp, Deputy General Secretary of the metal en engineering industry at Solidarity, a strike will result in a loss of income for the bargaining council, which could bring it to its knees. “A strike will mean that the bargaining council won’t be able to cover its costs from levies paid by employers and employees, which is critical to fulfilling its functions.

Projections indicate that such a strike may halve the MEIBC's revenue for the month. The consequences resulting from this will shake the industry to its very core,” Croucamp said.

“Solidarity would like to continue with negotiations and therefore requested a 30-day extension in the negotiation process. We urge trade unions and employers to stay committed to the collective bargaining process,” Croucamp said.

According to Croucamp, some of the employers offered a 5,3% increase in the industry while the employers’ organisations Neasa and Border withdrew their wage offer. “Although Solidarity asked for a 10% increase, the trade union is determined to ensure the long-term success of the industry and therefore it is willing to continue with the wage negotiations,” Croucamp explained.

Issued by Solidarity