SEDIBENG. – The National Union of Metal  of South Africa (NUMSA) strike that has been on its third week could come to an end after reports that the union is urging its members to accept a 6% raise from the 8% that they were demanding.

The Spokesperson of the Union, Phakamile Hlubi- Majola said they have not yet reached an amicable agreement with the employer.

“Our members rejected the offer of 6% wage increase that is based on minimums, and not on the actual rates of pay. The union mandate is based on the actual rates of payment and is not far from reach. We believe employers can afford to compromise. Our demands are reasonable given the factors that the global steel industry has recovered from the impact of lockdowns.”

Numsa urged all employee associations to come to the table and settle on 6% on the actual rates of pay, or based on what workers are earning, instead of 6% on the minimum rate so that the strike can come to an end.

The CCMA will be mediating between parties to assist with resolving the strike.

The meeting with CCMA is expected to be held on Wednesday.

“Members are encouraged to picket peacefully at the workplace and to adhere to the picketing rules,” said Hlubi-Majola.