Numsa, Solidarity accept wage offer

Johannesburg - Both Numsa and Solidarity have accepted a wage offer in the metals and engineering sector.

The National Union of Metalworkers of SA general secretary Irvin Jim said workers would start returning to work on Tuesday.

Solidarity spokesperson Marius Croucamp said his union would also accept the offer from the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of SA (Seifsa) of a three-year salary agreement.

"The offer comprises salary increases of 8 - 10% to 10% in year one, 7.5% - 10% in year two and 7 - 10% in year three," said Croucamp.

Over 200 000 Numsa members in the metal and engineering sector downed tools on July 1, demanding a salary increase of 12%, down from their pre-strike demand of 15%.

The labour department and Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration facilitated talks between Seifsa and unions earlier this month when negotiations between the parties deadlocked.