Members of the National Union of Metal Workers embarked on a full-blown strike on Monday due to “short-time” work arrangements that have been implemented at Kimberley Engineering Works (KEW) Foundries.
MEMBERS of the National Union of Metal Workers (Numsa) embarked on a full-blown strike on Monday due to “short-time” work arrangements that have been implemented at Kimberley Engineering Works (KEW) Foundries.
Numsa regional organiser Tshepo Mokhele said that about 70 workers were affected by the short-time work policy, where employees are only called in when work opportunities arise.
“This is done on a no work, no pay basis,” he stated.
Mokhele further claimed that workers were only being paid R33 per hour instead of R55 per hour, which he said should align with their job gradings.
“The short-time work arrangement is also affecting bonus payouts that are formulated according to the number of days worked during the year,” he added.
Mokhele stated that the strike, which began on Monday, February 3, will continue indefinitely.
“We will be picketing outside the premises daily from 6.30am to 3pm until our grievances are resolved. The labour dispute has been referred to the Metal and Engineering Works Industry Bargaining Council for conciliation, mediation and arbitration.”
He added that members were embarking on mass action on a “no work, no pay” basis.
“No one is being forced to participate in the strike,” Mokhele noted.
KEW did not wish to comment at this stage.