Stand-off at Steinhoff

GEORGE NEWS - Timber workers of PG Bison who belong to the workers union Bwawusa (Building, Wood and Allied workers' Union of SA), entered the third day of their legal strike yesterday, 19 October.

A group of about 30 workers can be seen picketing in front of the Steinhoff Industrial Park entrance daily.

The peaceful strike, which started on Monday morning, is about a labour dispute. Police officers and the business park's security company, Alert Patrol, keep a watchful eye on the protesters.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sgt Christopher Spies said members of the public order police will remain in the area while the strike is ongoing. It is uncertain for how long the strike will continue.

Documentation from the CCMA, through whom permission was obtained, does not include a time limit and shop stewards of Bwawusa weren't sure themselves when they would call it quits.

Timber workers of PG Bison strike in front of the entrance to Steinhoff Industrial Park. Photo: Michelle Pienaar

Strikers initially prevented workers who did not want to join the strike from entering the premises on Monday, but they have since relented and are letting their colleagues pass.

Some non-strikers were hesitant to make the move, in fear of intimidation back at home in the evenings, where there is no police presence.

According to deputy secretary-general of Bwawusa, Clarence Mtyenele, two unions represent the timber workers, and only one union was part of the negotiations. "They negotiated with Ceppwawu [Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers' Union] and signed a three-year contract for an annual 6% wage increase. We want a wage increase of 10%, plus medical aid," said Mtyenele. George Herald has not yet been successful in several attempts to reach the HR manager of PG Bison for comment.

Timber workers of PG Bison strike in front of entrance to Steinhoff Industrial Park. Photo: Michelle Pienaar