Minimum wage
21 November 2016
For the first time in many years there is movement in the labour relations stand-off and that is something to celebrate, says the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“While we were not advocates of the minimum wage, we are pleased to see that it will be phased in over two to three years and there are provisions for exceptions, especially in the agriculture and domestic fields,” said Ms Janine Myburgh, President of the Chamber.
“The minimum wage is well below what some unions were demanding so there has been significant compromise. Given that 47 % of the workforce earns below R 3 500, this could make a small contribution to reducing wage income inequality but broader consultation is required with industry employer associations to look at impact especially on the SMME sector and informal business which could be hardest hit,” she said
The Chamber had long campaigned for secret ballots before a legal strike could take place. “This is a simple democratic measure widely and successfully used in free countries and it is high time South Africa got on board. It will prevent domination by factions within unions and should help to reduce intimidation and violence which have become unfortunate features of many strikes over the years.”