The following media release is issued with regard to the mediation negotiations held on December 28, aimed at ending the strike action by NUM members at some of Amplats operations. The parties met in private mediation on 28 December 1998. At the end of the session the parties agreed to report back to their mandate givers on 29 December 1998.
They agreed to continue negotiations outside of mediation on 30 December 1998 and to resume mediation on 4 January 1999 if no agreement has been reached by then. Both NUM and Amplats agreed to this media release after the mediation negotiations on 28 December 1998. It has been compiled by the mediator , John Brand, on behalf of both parties.
Amplats and NUM agree to mediation 29 December 1998
Regarding the strike action by NUM at some Amplats operations, both Amplats management and NUM have agreed to refer the matter to mediation.
All the terms and conditions for mediation, including the designated mediator, have been agreed and the mediation process will commence on the date originally set for arbitration ie Monday, December 28.
NUM embarks on Protected Strike 24 December 1998
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has embarked upon a protected strike over wages and conditions of employment at various operations within the Amplats group. The stoppage, which is restricted to NUM members, is currently having a minimal affect on production.
The stoppage is peaceful and no incidents of violence have been reported.Amplats is continuing to negotiate with NUM and we are hopeful that there will be a speedy resolution to the dispute.
Amplats and NUM unable to resolve strike 23 December 1998
Discussions aimed at resolving the NUM strike action at some Amplats operations have as yet been unsuccessful.
In spite of having negotiated the conditions and terms of reference of an arbitration process, mutually agreeing a specific arbitrator, and the date of arbitration (being Monday, 28 December 1998) the NUM has now informed Amplats that it wishes to unilaterally depart from this agreed process.
Amplats reiterates its willingness to continue with the planned arbitration process on Monday, 28 December 1998 and is available to meet with NUM throughout the holiday period.
Strike referred to mediation 23 December 1998
Regarding the strike action by NUM at some Amplats operations, both Amplats management and NUM have agreed to refer the matter to mediation.
All the terms and conditions for mediation, including the designated mediator, have been agreed and the mediation process will commence on the date originally set for arbitration ie Monday, December 28.
Issued By: Group Public Affairs
Public Relations Manager
Steve Calladine
Tel: (011) 373-6846
Cell: 082 651 8109
Johannesburg