Resumption of Operations at Lonmin
Marikana, 20 August 2012: Lonmin can confirm that work at its Marikana operations resumed today as significant numbers of employees returned to work.
Lonmin had issued ultimatum affecting 3,000 rock drill operators and assistant rock drill operators, who have been illegally on strike since August 10th, to return to work today or face potential disciplinary action
Almost one third of the 28 000-strong workforce reported for their morning shifts on Monday (20th August). After consultations with various labour representatives today, the Company can also announce that those illegal strikers who did not return to work this morning will not be dismissed and have been allowed an extra day in light of current circumstances. Lonmin agrees with all stakeholders involved that this is the right thing to do as all parties work together to help restore stability to both the mines and the region in the light of the tragic events of last week.
The vast majority of the workforce have not been on strike but have been unable to work since the violence which surrounded the recent illegal strike at the mines began.
Unions and mine management are acting in unison to encourage more employees to follow. The company will hold a joint media conference later today with the unions, all of whom wish to see their members return to work.