Parliament,Friday, 11 May 2018 – The Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committeeon Labour, Ms Sharome van Schalkwyk, has noted the announcement made by theunions involved in the bus strike, and said it looked positive.

“This is exciting news especially that the economy was beginning to takea knock and that many people who rely on buses to be connected to economicopportunities were severely affected,” Ms Van Schalkwyk said.

“We have noted the announcement by the unions and this is an indicationthat they are not far apart with the employers, on substantial issues. Wewelcome also the fact that the offer has generally found support among thegeneral membership of the unions,” she said.

The unions involved in the bus strike announced that they have acceptedthe pay rise of 9% for the current year, and 8% for the next financial year. Itwas announced that a task team is set to finalise other issues like the nightallowance and other things.

“We urge all the stakeholders to find each other on the matter ofbackdating the increases to 1 April. If the important issues had been agreed tosurely this issue should be tackled with ease, and should not unnecessarilyprolong the industrial action,” Ms Van Schalkwyk said.

“The committee is excited in the interest of the commuters who sufferedduring this action as much as we respect the workers’ right to fight for betterwages and better working conditions,” she said.

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ONBEHALF OF THE ACTING CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON LABOUR, MSSHAROME VAN SCHALKWYK.

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