Wage agreement in carpet sector

Johannesburg - A wage agreement has been reached between employers in the carpet sector and the SA Clothing and Textile Workers' Union, the union said on Wednesday.

"A dispute was declared after the third round and a settlement was reached during conciliation which took place on June 25," general secretary Andre Kriel said in a statement.

"The settlement package is 7.75%, covering a wage increase and an improved service allowance."

The union had wanted 8%.

"Approximately 1 000 workers from four factories, nationally, will benefit from this increase," Kriel said.

The settlement, effective from July 1, was reached under the auspices of the National Textile Bargaining Council.