Traffic strike over as Satawu, Teti ink wage deal

Cape Town - The South African Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (Satawu) said the strike at traffic incidents management company Teti Traffic is over and workers will be reporting for work on Monday.

Satawu members downed tools on May 3 following a deadlock in wage increase negotiations, with workers claiming they haven't received a wage increase in four years.

The strike caused traffic chaos as Teti Traffic manages all traffic incidents including clearing up accident scenes on behalf of the South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral).

On May 3, the day the strike started, motorists spent up to three hours in early morning traffic.

Employees earn between R4 325 and R16 000.

According to the signed wage agreement, workers will receive a 7% increase across the board backdated from January 1 2016. A minimum wage of R5 250 backdated from January 1 2016 has also been agreed on. Payment of both will be made at the end of June with the normal payroll.

Members are also entitled to a 13th cheque, also to be paid at the end of June.

However, the employer was not able to make provision for the establishment of medical aid and provident funds as Teti Traffic’s contract with Sanral comes to an end in December this year, Satawu said in a statement.

The parties have until end of August to work out the terms (including benefits) of a Full Time Shop Steward Agreement.

The workers were looking for a 130% increase.