Trade union Solidarity today concluded a three-year wage increase agreement for employees in the gold industry. After three rounds of dispute negotiations at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) the agreement was signed by Solidarity, NUM, Uasa and the Chamber of Mines.

In terms of the agreement miners, artisans and officials working for AngloGold Ashanti will receive an increase of 6% during the first year of the agreement. During year two and three of the agreement, the said workers will receive either an increase of 6% or an increase equal to the inflation rate, whichever is the highest. In contrast, Harmony Gold offered a salary increase of 6% for the next three years.

The offer of the said companies also makes provision to increase the retirement age of staff who work above ground from 60 to 63.

Issued by Solidarity