Hulamin employees embark on strike over unresolved issues since 2014

On Monday, July 10, Hulamin employees downed their tools and went on strike outside the aluminium products firm over concerns they claim have been unresolved since 2014. The workers picketed outside the Hulamin Aluminium's many entrances and outside the main gate about difficulties with their medical assistance subsidisation and retirement fund benefits.

A shop steward employee and National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa trade union (Numsa) member who requested anonymity stated they could not agree with their employee and opted to strike. The workers stated that they want to be treated fairly, just like the [administration] employees. During the pandemic period the employees had referred the matter of medical aid to the bargaining council for further help.

“We don’t want equal, as we know people are receiving funds according to their position in the company. We just want a fair amount. This is causing division among us,” added the employee.

"We have tried to solve the issue since 2014. The first issue that we trying to solve is that the company has capped its contribution towards our medical aid funds. Whether the rate increases or not, they contribute a fixed amount. The other grievance that we have is that we want to be treated fairly regarding the amount that we receive for our retirement fund benefits," said the employee.

The employee went on to say that the strike will continue forever. According to Noma Kanyile, Hulamin Group's communications manager, the issue still needs to be addressed, and Numsa has gone on strike.

“Numsa has raised a mutual interest dispute, the demands relate respectively to the medical aid subsidisation and retirement fund benefits. The matter has not been resolved,” said Kanyile.