NUM - National Union of Mineworkers
NUM - National Union of Mineworkers
08/29/2023 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2023 07:32
Post-NUMYS national committee meeting media statement
Media Statement 29 August 2023
Post-NUMYS national committee meeting media statement
The National Union of Mineworkers Youth Structure (NUMYS) convened its National Committee meeting on the 24th-25th of August 2023 at Elijah Barayi College. The NUMYS remained resolute in addressing various challenges faced by young workers at work places, particularly, young workers in mining, construction, energy and metal sectors.
As the National Youth Structure, we stand united in our commitment to safeguard the interests of young NUM members and the broader communities across all our eleven regions.
Amongst critical issues discussed are as followed:
The unbundling of power utility Eskom
We condemn the decision to unbundle Eskom, of which in our own assessment that could result in massive job losses and lead to unaffordable electricity tariffs. As the National Youth Structure, we did submitted our displeasure by embarking on organised protest marches and have raised our concerns around the closure of Eskom Power Stations. The emerging claims that the ruling party, the African National Congress was not aware of the unbundling processes has raised skepticism amongst ourselves as young workers.
Our conviction is thatsuch massive project cannot happen without the blessing and oversights of the Cabinet or even PresidentCyril Ramaphosa himself.
We had since advocated for the removal of the Minister in charge and reaffirmed our believe that this move could endangers Eskom as a vital national asset.
Illegal Mining Activities (Zama Zamas)
As the National Youth Structure, we remain resolute to the fact that only DMRE Minister Gwede Mantashe is capable of resolving illegal mining in this country. Minister Mantashe must address these ills by closing all the unsafe and unused shafts. The Minister must consider a certain relaxation of regulations to allow capable miners to contribute into the country's economy as that might reduce the high rate of youth unemployment. Stricter mine closure regulations are imperative to avoid environmental degradation.
Increasing Repo Rate
The monthly escalating repo rateis undeniablydetrimentaland veryimpactful in the daily lives of many young workers in South Africa. The failures of most arrogant employers to grant annual salary increases to workers that are aligned with the increasing repo rates is highly regressive and directly jackknifing in the way of the worker' struggle for better wage. The escalating conflict between the demands for better increments and employers' resort to retrenchment necessitates a reevaluation of the Reserve Bank's nationalization.
National Health Insurance
We insist that the government accelerates the National Health Insurance scheme. South Africa's development hinges on an improved healthcare system that caters to all citizens equally. Achieving this will be a critical milestone in our journey toward progressive state and better lives for all.
Defending Trade Unionism
We advocate for a comprehensive review of the Labour Relations Act to fortify workers' bargaining rights. The proposed amendments should make retrenchments more costly for employers, thereby protecting the welfare of workers. Additionally, bolstering the Labour Court's capacity will expedite dispute resolution, ensuring prompt justice within a year, not half a decade. If these are not addressed then the unions in this country are under attacks.
State of Politics in South Africa
As the NUM National Youth Structure, we would like to extend our accolades to the ruling party' youth league (ANCYL), an entity we staunchly believe in. Collaboratively, we aim to drive forward the agenda of the young people.
We stand firmly behind the marches planned and organized by the Young Communist League, the SACP and the NUM against the closure of the Komati Power Station. Our unwavering support will be evident in our substantial presence during this demonstration.
For more detailed information, please contact:
Sandra Maseko, NUM Youth Structure National Secretary, 064 683 9482
The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media