Johannesburg - Trade union Solidarity is considering going on strike at Lonmin's platinum mine in Marikana, North West, in a bid to have its recognition at the company restored, it said on Monday.
“Lonmin's decision to sign an agreement with the majority trade union only violates the framework agreement for a sustainable mining industry that was recently signed by the role players in the industry,” general secretary Gideon du Plessis said in a statement.
“In terms of the framework agreement, the principle of majority recognition must be reviewed.”
Last week, Lonmin and the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) signed an agreement granting Amcu the majority union status at its operations.
“A strike will be the last resort as it could have devastating consequences. It will cost Lonmin around R60 million losses a day,” Du Plessis said.
He said Solidarity had already begun talks with other unions for a joint labour action.
Solidarity's members were the skilled employees who kept the mine going during last year's strike-related unrest in Marikana, said Du Plessis.
“Lonmin, however, has decided to reward unrest and to penalise responsibility... Lonmin will not be able to rely on Solidarity members' skills in case of another strike.”
Comment from Lonmin could not be obtained.
Sapa