SANParks employees have threatened a nationwide strike after wage negotiations collapsed.
According to Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (Hospersa), it and two other recognised trade unions have been involved in negotiations with SANParks over wage increases.
Negotiations have already gone to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) after a compromise could not be found. Although employees were originally asking for an 11% increase, the Commissioner recommended an 8% increase.
However, SANParks have said they can only offer 6.5%.
‘Together with the two other unions, close to five thousand disgruntled employees are now gearing up for a nationwide strike in the days to come. We appeal to SANParks to reconsider its position by paying fair wages in order to avoid industrial action that will negatively impact its revenue and conservation efforts,’ said Hospersa Public Relations Officer Kevin Halama in a statement.
‘Our members which includes field rangers, field guides, petrol attendants, receptionists and hut attendants are very upset that the employer has failed to meet the unions’ demands at the CCMA.’
This strike would effect day-to-day activities in the parks including household and visitor activities like guided walks and game drives as well as petrol filling stations.
The Unions will meet next week on Wednesday to finalise plans for industrial action.
Image Source: SANParks
