Issued by: Ministry of Labour
PRESS STATEMENT BY THE MINISTER OF LABOUR, TITO MBOWENI
POSSIBILITY OF JOB LOSSES ON ANGLO AMERICAN GOLD MINES
I am extremely concerned about the statement from Anglo American today, (Thursday, 18 January 1996) concerning the possible closure of five shafts during the March 1996 quarter. The thought of approximately 10 000 workers being retrenched into an already high level of unemployment society is indeed too much to bear. The negative impact of such a move on our society and others in Southern Africa will be too grave. This will be a tragedy of enormous political, economic and social proportions.
I understand that a summit meeting between management and the trade unions organising in the affected mines has been called for the 25th January 1996. It is my hope and wish that both management and workers will look at this approaching tragedy with all the seriousness which has characterised previous summits and negotiations.
As the economy continues to improve, we expect more jobs to be created for our people. Job losses at this moment should be avoided.
Mr Bobby Godsell and I will also be meeting soon, so that he can provide me with and extensive briefing on the situation. It is also clear to me that the mining industry should, at the earliest opportunity, together with the relevant unions provide a detailed submission to the government. We require long term planning in this industry to ensure that all of us are fully prepared for any future developments in the industry. In this context the provisions in the new Labour Relations Act pertaining to cosultations and joint decision making (Workplace forums) will play an important role in ensuring joint planning.
Enquiries: Shareen Singh 082-777-1745