Efforts to clear port backlog underway as work resumes
RECOVERY plans are under way as the majority of Transnet workers returned to duty this week following strike action.
The entity, which reached a three-year wage agreement with United National Transport Union (UNTU) - the majority union - on Monday after 12 days of industrial action, says the key focus is clearing the backlog of vessels at anchorage and alongside the quay, including bulk, break bulk and containers.
Transnet spokesperson Ayanda Shezi said employee attendance has increased across the board, averaging between 70% and 80% as work resumes to stabilise port and rail operations.
“Evacuation of imports out of the port is under way to create fluidity within the terminals, with the immediate focus being on perishable and time-sensitive cargo.
“All eight commercial ports remain accessible,” said Shezi.
On the rail side, she said trolley trips are being undertaken to assess the safety of the railway network, as well as inspection of rolling stock to ensure trains are declared safe before services resume fully.
“Repairs to sections of the network affected by theft and vandalism are also being undertaken,” she said.
Transnet pipelines continue to transport fuel to the inland market, with contingencies in place to ensure security of supply.
Transnet reached a three-year wage deal with UNTU, with employees set to get a 6% wage increase in the current year, 5.5% in year two, and 6% in year three.
Workers affiliated to the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) have, however, rejected the offer which they say is below inflation.
Satawu, which is the second largest union at Transnet, has labelled UNTU’s acceptance of the wage offer as a 'betrayal of workers'.
UNTU has, however, defended the decision saying it is a ‘reasonable offer which balances the needs of the employees and the challenges that Transnet is facing’.
“Although the 6% increase that has been agreed upon for this year is not exactly equal to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), it is much closer to CPI than the original 1% offer when
the salary negotiations commenced,” said UNTU general secretary Cobus van Vuuren.
Satawu has vowed to continue strike action until their demands are met.