Striking lessons

OW THAT the Marikana strike is over, the natural reaction might be to want to quickly forget about it as a bad dream, an aberration, and move on as if nothing had happened.

But such a response to a tragedy that claimed the lives of at least 46 people and threatens to unravel the economic viability of the country would be a mistake. Introspection by all parties – the unions and their members, the government and mining companies – is necessary if we are to learn from the awful experience and take steps to ensure it does not recur.

The judicial commission of inquiry must now be allowed to do its work without delay. It will hopefully produce useful recommendations to prevent future tragedies.

Taking visible and meaningful steps to address the root causes which led to the violent protest is crucial for the sake of industrial peace and how we are perceived by the international business community whose investment we need to create jobs and end poverty.

Marikana was a disaster for the families of those killed as well as our economic prospects.

In spite of the denials of government spin doctors, investors were spooked by the violent and protracted nature of the protests.

The strike made international headlines for weeks and there now exists a perception among some abroad that SA is not a stable and safe place to do business.

Much work needs to be done in words and deeds to regain investor confidence. Investors need certainty, stable labour relations and predictability which the Marikana events proved can no longer be taken for granted.

The strike also showed up the National Union of Mineworkers as not in control in an industry it has dominated for years.

It is no longer clear-cut who enjoys the support and confidence of the mineworkers, a situation which potentially makes it difficult for employers to know who is in charge in negotiations with workers.There are lessons here for big unions about the dangers of complacency and arrogance.

Although the mining industry has been in decline for years, it is synonymous with our economic development, still employs thousands of people – many semi-skilled – and makes a significant contribution to the fiscus.

It is in all our interests that it is protected so that it continues making a contribution to our prosperity.