By Phenyo Selinda
Johannesburg, South Africa – Gauteng Transport and Logistics MEC, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has expressed her support for renewed negotiations between the Bombela Operating Company and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA). The negotiation process resumes following a deadlock in wage discussions.
“We are hopeful that the decision to return to the negotiating table will result in adopting an approach which balances the interests of the workers against the long-term stability and sustainability of the Gautrain,” Diale-Tlabela remarked. Her statement underscores the critical need for a balanced resolution that considers both employee welfare and the operational viability of the Gautrain system.
Unfolding Strike and Contingency Plans
The industrial action began on Monday when Bombela Operating Company workers, represented by NUMSA, initiated an indefinite strike over wage disputes. Swift action from Bombela saw the implementation of contingency measures designed to maintain Gautrain service schedules, despite the ongoing strike.
MEC Diale-Tlabela acknowledged these efforts and stressed the government’s vested interest in seeing a swift resolution. “Government, as the owner of the Gautrain system, appeals to the two parties to find a speedy resolution to the impasse,” she said.
The Call for Negotiation
According to the MEC, resolving industrial action through negotiation is paramount to preventing “unpleasant consequences for all parties involved”. She firmly believes that negotiations, rather than prolonged strikes, are the optimal path to a sustainable solution.
Assurance to Commuters
Addressing Gautrain commuters directly, Diale-Tlabela offered reassurance amidst the industrial unrest. “To the commuters, even though Gautrain services have not been disrupted by the strike, we appreciate that news of industrial action can justifiably make you feel anxious and uncertain about the reliability of the service.”
She further committed that the government will continue to facilitate dialogue between the parties involved to ensure a rapid and mutually agreeable resolution. “We commit to continuing our role in urging the two parties to find a speedy resolution to the wage dispute,” Diale-Tlabela confirmed.
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