SAA tables improved wage offer

Thursday, October 5, 2017

South African Airways (SAA) has tabled an improved wage offer to its labour unions.

“SAA would like to give an update that it has made considerable progress with the current wage negotiations dispute with labour unions represented at its maintenance subsidiary, SAA Technical (SAAT),” said the carrier on Wednesday.

On Friday, 29 September 2017, SAAT was served with a notice of intention to embark on industrial action by the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu).

Satawu is one of the labour unions represented at SAAT.

“The strike notice was served in accordance with the labour laws and this has not affected SAA flight schedules in any way.  To mitigate any possible strike action, SAA began to review and update its contingency measures to ensure business continuity and to minimise the impact of any strike action on its operations,” said SAA.

Since the notice was served, management obtained a revised mandate from the Board of Directors and met with the labour unions to present a revised offer to the unions on Wednesday.

“The offer was not immediately rejected and the unions requested time to consult with their members. Feedback will be received during the course of the day from two unions and from the third union by Thursday, 5 October 2017.

“Management remains committed to working jointly with the labour unions to find solutions that accommodate the employee demands, safeguard the business and to avert possible industrial action,” said SAA.

The carrier said while it appreciates the demand for salary increases, this must be done being mindful of current financial constraints the company is facing and such demands must be tested against affordability and sustainability principles in wage negotiations. – SAnews.gov.za