CCMA awards Eskom workers increase

Johannesburg - An arbitration panel granted Eskom workers a cost-to-company pay rise of 6.3%, the Commission for conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration announced on Friday.

The increase encompassed wages and other benefits, CCMA spokesperson Laura Mseme said in a statement.

There was a deadlock in wage negotiations between Eskom and its three recognised unions, the National Union of Mineworkers, the National Union of Metalworkers and Solidarity last year.

When the matter went to arbitration, Eskom offered an increase of 5.6%, which amounted to a total cost-to-company of 6.3%, including adjustments on allowances.

The unions wanted increases to total cost-to-company ranging from 20.1% to 44.3%. 

As Eskom is a designated essential service, its workers are legally prevented from striking.

In reaching the decision, CCMA arbitrator Floors Brand took into consideration factors including affordability, comparability, productivity, cost of living and the bargaining history of the parties.