Mernat Mafirakurewa, AfricaNews reporter in Johannesburg, South Africa
At least 95 percent of 2010 World Cup construction sites have been paralysed by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) strike. In a statement NUM said workers have shown their willingness to go ahead with strike until their demands are met. Close to 70 000 workers are taking part in the nationwide strike.
“NUM is pleased to report that over 95 percent of the sites were hit by the strike.
“The strike will enter its second day tomorrow [Thursday] and workers have shown the willingness and resilience to continue until employers offer the required 13 percent,” " spokesperson Lesiba Seshoka said.
Construction stopped in Durban at Moses Mabhida stadium, King Shaka International Airport and at a project to widen Durban and Richard's Bay harbours.
NUM negotiator Bhekani Ngcobo said if employers do not offer the workers the 13%, the union could push its demand to 15% next week and 20% after a fortnight.
A meeting to discuss the wage dispute between NUM, the SA Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors (Safcec), the 2010 Local Organising Committee and department of labour is scheduled to take place Thursday.
World Cup Local Organising Committee CEO Danny Jordaan was optimistic about the negotiations.
“We believe that the strike will be resolved as soon as possible and remain confident that the stadiums will be completed on schedule," he said in a statement.
At least 95 percent of 2010 World Cup construction sites have been paralysed by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) strike. In a statement NUM said workers have shown their willingness to go ahead with strike until their demands are met. Close to 70 000 workers are taking part in the nationwide strike.
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