Question NW3840 to the Minister of Public Enterprises
24 November 2022 - NW3840
Essack, Mr F to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Whether, in light of the fact that the unprotected strike by workers at Transnet has severely impacted the mining and agricultural export industries, with estimates indicating that the loss may run into billions of rand, the Government will consider substantially increasing by up to 50% third party access to the Transnet rail network operations to protect the economy from future disruptions caused by illegal labour action; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet
Normal weekly average volumes for Agriculture and Mining are 12 611 tons and 2 622 737 tons respectively. Over the strike period, the weekly average volumes for Agriculture stood at 10 033 tons, and 1 901 034 tons for Mining.
Third party access by itself is incapable of remedying industry or sector level employee strikes or protests. South African Labour Relations are governed by the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act and other related laws, policies and agreements concluded in formal bargaining structures.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister of Public Enterprises
Date: Date: