Workers from Hoya Hill Optics South Africa began peaceful protests outside the company’s offices in Kramerville on 16 September due to a wage dispute.
The workers are represented by Chemical Energy Paper Printing Wood and Allied Workers Union (CEPPWAWU).
Spokesperson for CEPPWAWU, Ribson Moloy, said the company does not want to negotiate with workers as yet due to insufficient representation. “There are more than 250 workers in the company and about 140 are protesting,” said Moloy.
The union is demanding a 20 per cent increase across the board, as well as a minimum wage of R7 500. “Many workers get a lot less than that,” said Moloy.
The company confirmed that members of CEPPWAWU are currently on strike and that it is a protected strike. The company stated in a press release that the trade union does not have majority status at the workplace. “Hoya Hill respects the employees’ right to embark on strike action in terms of the Labour Relations Act and the Constitution of the country. Hoya Hill Optics remains committed to the resolution of the matter at hand through the necessary engagements,” read the statement.
This is an ongoing story and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
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