Power: Numsa calls for Eskom protests

The National Union of Metalworkers of SA (Numsa) would demonstrate over wage increases at Eskom plants next week, it said yesterday. “The Numsa national executive committee… resolved that members in Eskom must join a protest march [on Tuesday],” deputy general secretary Karl Cloete said. The union is demanding a one-year wage agreement with an increase of 12 percent across the board, a housing allowance of R1 000, a 16 percent incentive scheme and R100 standby allowance. Eskom reportedly offered a 5.6 percent raise, but it would not confirm this. Cloete said Numsa would not be dissuaded from pursuing industrial action despite threats of dismissals if members went on an unprotected strike. – Sapa