The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) has warned of a looming bus strike ahead of the Easter weekend after wage negotiations collapsed with the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council (Sarpbac). The union declared a dispute in February when employers failed to meet demands and refused a revised offer during recent conciliation.
The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) issued a warning of a potential bus strike as the Easter weekend approaches. This follows the collapse of wage negotiations with the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council (Sarpbac). On 18 February, Satawu declared a dispute after employers did not meet bus drivers' demands. During this week's conciliation, management again refused to present a revised offer, leading to a certificate of non-resolution. This triggers a 30-day cooling-off period and requires a 48-hour strike notice before any action. Satawu is pushing for a two-year wage agreement that includes a 6.5% increase, while the employer has offered only 3.25%.[br][br]Amanda Tshemese, Satawu's Head of Communications, stated: “The employer is only giving us 3.25% and that is an insult to labour and the workers. We understand the challenges and the difficulties of the strike. However, it’s clear that these bus companies prefer to negotiate on the streets.”[br][br]Passengers face the risk of disruptions during the busy holiday period if the dispute escalates.
