SACTWU strike imminent

The Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers Union has declared a national wage dispute against clothing industry employers.

If the dispute is not resolved, 60 thousand clothing workers across the country could embark on strike action.

Speaking at a press conference, General Secretary of SACTWU, Andre Kriel, said workers and the union will not accept a wage increase offer lower than the inflation rate.

He added that the workers have compromised their modest wage proposals and grievances for the past five years to sustain what he calls a “ vulnerable industry”.

The union has proposed a 7% increase while the employers are offering a 5% raise.