The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU), which represents members in the private security sector, has signed a three-year wage agreement with employers.
The agreement provides for a wage increase of 5.7 percent in the first year, followed by increases of 5.5 percent in both the second and third years.
According to the union, employers have also agreed to contribute 60 percent towards workers’ medical aid cover, among other benefits.
SATAWU spokesperson Amanda Tshemese-Lesabe says the agreement marks an important milestone for security officers.
Tshemese-Lesabe says, “We have been indeed fighting for the medical aid cover for the security officers; this is a victory for the workers. There will be no retrenchment during this period of the agreement. The private security industry plays a very important role in our economy as it contributes to our business.”
“Government has also approached us to assist on the 30th of June for the anticipated illegal immigration protest said to be coming. That alone explains that the private security industry is very important. All the security companies should comply with the collective bargaining; those who don’t comply should be prosecuted.”
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