The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) handed over a list of demands to Tshepo Ramodibe, the Corporate Affairs Manager at the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), on Tuesday.
The labour union wants the IDC’s urgent intervention at the SA Steel Mills and ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA).
Phakamile Hlubi-Majola, Spokesperson of NUMSA, said in a statement, the union represents 80% of the workforce at SA Steel Mills (SASM) and is the majority union at AMSA.
“NUMSA will not stand by silently while workers are treated as an afterthought in a process that directly affects their lives, families and communities. Workers at SASM have been without proper income and security for an extended period. The business rescue process, which has been underway since July 2024, has been marked by delays, poor communication, and a glaring lack of transparency. The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) as a key stakeholder and funder must intervene decisively and act in line with its developmental mandate” said Hlubi-Majola.
In addition, NUMSA wants the IDC to support the implementation of a hardship relief mechanism for affected workers at SASM, as well as seek for binding social and labour conditions, as part of the Business Rescue Process.
“Reject Alfeco as a preferred bidder and reject any asset-only proposal that avoids Section 197 and pushes workers to the margins. This is because Alfeco may take as long as 5 years to revive the business and will not guarantee the number of workers to be employed” said Hlubi-Majola.
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