Eskom says it has decided to implement a 1.5% basic wage increase from July 1 and adjust some employee benefits.
This comes following engagements with unions via the Central Bargaining Forum since the start of the wage talks in May.
“After extensive engagements at the Central Bargaining Forum, since the start of the wage talks during May 2021, Eskom has exercised its right and made a decision to implement its final 1.5% basic wage increase and changes to the conditions of service offer…,” the power utility said in a statement on Friday.
Eskom said the decision had been communicated to three recognised unions: the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), the National Union of Metalworkers of SA (NUMSA), and Solidarity.
Eskom implements conditional 1.5% basic wage increase offer, urges employees to act in the public interest and respect the rule of law pic.twitter.com/OrX1LwLGdW
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) June 25, 2021
The power utility said its offer was dependent on the efficiencies and savings realised from reviewing certain elements of employee benefits where there were excesses.
“Eskom has identified possible adjustments in the overtime, travel and transfer benefits, among others. These adjustments would also be implemented on July 1,” Eskom said.
Talks reportedly ended on June 2, but no resolution could be reached on June 10 at the Commission of Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) head office.
The NUM and Numsa wanted a 15% wage hike, while Solidarity asked for 9.5%.
Parties were still waiting for the arbitration process.
‘Keep he lights burning in SA’
“Colleagues, as proud, caring and committed South Africans, we cannot allow a dispute over wages to compromise our national interest and hold hard working South Africans and their families hostage, as a result,” said Eskom group chief executive André de Ruyter in a statement to employees.
“When Eskom Guardians keep the lights burning in South Africa, and electricity supplied to crucial medical facilities, we are playing our part in ensuring that hospitals and businesses can operate, save lives and get South Africans back to work.”
Eskom urged all its employees and labour unions to put the national interest and respect for the rule of law first.
“Eskom would like to remind all stakeholders that the generation, distribution and transmission of electricity are classified as essential services. Eskom employees are therefore legally prohibited from participation in unlawful industrial action,” the utility said in a statement.
PICTURE: Unsplash
By Betha Madhomu
