UPDATE: Foskor dispute in week-long deadlock
Company management still in discussions with CEPPWAWU union members.
DISCUSSIONS are still underway at Richards Bay’s phosphates producer Foskor to end a week-long dispute with CEPPWAWU (Chemical Energy Paper Printing Wood & Allied Workers Union) members over salary change demands.
Employees embarked on protected protest action last week Thursday, demanding that existing pay slips be altered to a basic salary format, as well as the implementation of salary scales, a pay progression criteria and bonuses.
So far the company has offered to change the pay structure for workers who are in level one to seven criterias, but told union representatives to consult their members about the imminent consequences.
‘The consequences of changing to the desired format means some employees’ take home (net) salary may diminish due to changes in tax treatment,’ said the company in a statement.
‘Employees need to be made aware that they would pay tax up front for provident fund contributions.’
Management also agreed to develop a pay progression criteria relevant to Foskor’s local division.
However, the company stated the salary scales are conditions of employment, regulated by a wage agreement signed between management and the union.
This contract is valid until 31 March 2017.
Bonuses are also not on the cards as Foskor said Richards Bay’s divisional performance did not meet set performance objectives.
But the company promised it will continue to discuss compromises with its employees.
‘Foskor is committed to reaching an amicable solution on the matter and would like to urge the CEPPWAWU leadership to engage their members to return to work.’
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