STEELPOORT
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has expressed its deep concern regarding the recent announcement of potential retrenchments by Glencore and Samancor at their South African ferrochrome operations. These proposed job cuts are attributed to economic pressures, notably high electricity tariffs and a decline in ferrochrome prices.
The NUM said it finds this action to be premature and disingenuous. The Union, along with government and key stakeholders, including Eskom, is currently in active negotiations to secure a viable solution to the electricity cost challenges. The NUM said a threat of retrenchment appears to be a coercive tactic designed to gain an advantage in these ongoing talks.
“We have made it clear that we will not tolerate our members being used as bargaining tools,” stated Lefty Mashego, NUM Chief Negotiator. “We demand that Glencore and Samancor cease using the threat of job losses as leverage. All stakeholders must focus on finding a collaborative and sustainable solution for the industry.”
Furthermore, the NUM urged these companies to reconsider their commitment to South Africa. Should they decide they are no longer able to operate, we call on them to surrender their mining and operating licenses. The jobs at the ten smelters—including Glencore’s Boshoek, Wonderkop, and Lion facilities, and Samancor’s Ferrometals, Middelburg Ferrochrome, Tubatse Ferrochrome, Tubatse Alloys, Dikwena, and TC Smelter—are vital to the economic stability of the communities that depend on them.
The NUM said it is resolute in its stance to protect the livelihoods of its members and the broader economy.