Transnet tables final wage offer

Johannesburg -Transnet has tabled a final wage offer in a dispute with the SA Transport and Allied Workers' Union (Satawu) which is threatening strike action on port, rail and pipeline systems.

"We have tabled a final offer which labour has undertaken to test with its members," Transnet spokesman John Dludlu said in a statement on Tuesday afternoon.

"We await labour's response to the final offer by May 4 2010."

Satawu said Transnet had offered an 8% increase while the union was demanding 15%.

"Conciliation in a wage dispute between the two recognised unions and Transnet came to an end [Monday] night, making way for the possibility of strike action across South Africa's port, rail and pipeline systems," Satawu said in a statement.

The union said the final offer would be presented to the national shop steward council on Thursday.

"Thereafter [discussions will follow] with general membership in the provinces before making a final decision on the way forward, including whether to proceed with strike action."

- Sapa