Transport strike hits economy: Busa

"Of grave concern is that the economy is suffering and millions of rands have already been lost in production and wages," Busa CEO Nomaxabiso Majokweni said in a statement.

"Confidence in South Africa's ability to ensure a stable business environment where investments are secure and good economic growth is achieved, has been eroded and it is going to be difficult to reverse this."

Truck drivers aligned to the SA Transport and Allied Workers' Union, the Professional Transport and Allied Workers' Union SA, the Transport and Allied Workers' Union of SA, and the Motor Transport Workers' Union have been on a pay strike for a week.

On Friday, the Labour Court granted an interdict preventing any violence during the strike after trucks were set alight and stoned, and staff were assaulted.

Majokweni appealed to all involved to find a resolution to the strike.

Busa believed that where there was damage to property, the organising union should be held liable.

"We call upon all concerned to speak with their members as industrial peace is best achieved within a framework of clear rights and obligations," said Majokweni.

"We cannot afford another Marikana."

Unions wanted a 12% increase in pay and rejected a lower offer tabled by employers on Tuesday.

Talks were expected to continue on Wednesday.

Source: Sapa via I-Net Bridge