Eskom’s revised below-inflation wage offer rejected by unions – negotiations continue

Despite Eskom’s increased wage offer of 4.5%, unions, including NUM, Numsa and Solidarity, remain resolute in their demands for higher increases.

Eskom increased its wage increase offer on Tuesday, 23 May. However, it is far from the demands put forward by unions.

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UNIONS STAND FIRM ON DEMANDS FOR HIGHER WAGE INCREASE DESPITE ESKOM’S REVISED OFFER

Eskom offered a below-inflation increase of 4.5%, up from the initial offer of 3.75%. Unions, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), the National Union of Metalworkers of SA (Numsa), and Solidarity, rejected the offer but are determined to reach an amicable agreement.

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According to TimesLive, NUM and NUMSA are demanding 11% and 12%, respectively. They initially wanted a 15% wage increase.

Solidarity is asking for 3% above the average inflation rate, which currently sits at 7.1% in March. The union does not intend to revise its offer.

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FINAL ROUND OF NEGOTIATIONS COMES TO AN END THIS WEEK

Solidarity Deputy Secretary General Helgard Cronje told TimesLive the union hoped NUM and NUMSA would lower demands so that there would be consolidated labour representation.

Negotiations continue. Thursday, 25 May, is meant to be the last day of the final round of engagements. However, an agreement to extend the negotiations could be reached.

The parties agreed to sign a one-year deal instead of a multi-year one.

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