Solidarity calls for debate with Magara on minority union rights issue

JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Solidarity general secretary Gideon du Plessis has called on Lonmin CEO Ben Magara to participate in a live television or radio debate on its decision to remove the recognition and organisational rights of minority trade unions – Solidarity, the National Union of Mineworkers and Uasa – at its mines.

Solidarity on Monday reported that the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union was now recognised as the only trade union at the platinum miner’s operations.

In an open letter addressed to Magara, on Thursday, Du Plessis expressed dismay at Lonmin’s decision.

He added that Magara had previously given his word that the minority unions’ recognition rights would be safeguarded.

“I still recall that at the time of finalising the limited rights agreement you and I shook hands in the presence of our representatives and you solemnly promised that our rights would now be safeguarded and would be upheld,” said Du Plessis.