Footwear workers strike in Durban
The union members are calling for a 15% pay increase and an end to short time, which requires them to work just two days per week.
Martin Paulsen, the union’s general secretary said that the Southern African Footwear and Leather Industries Association (Saflia) had offered an 8% wage increase and a 2% provident fund. However, he said that this was subject to the current footwear agreement not extending beyond the end of June and renegotiations starting within six months. He added that this would mean that employers would be able to pay whatever wages they like.
Workers from over 40 companies went on strike, including Michelle Footwear, Palm Footwear, Beier Footwear and Crown Footwear.
