IMC welcomes signing of Peace Accord

06 September 2012

The Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on the Marikana tragedy welcomes the signing of the peace accord on Thursday, 5 September 2012, by some of the stakeholders involved in the Marikana negotiations. The LonminMarikanaPeace Accord paves the way for endorsing an environment of social harmony and peace.

The Department of Labour and the CCMA continues to mediate in the talks between the stakeholders including the employer and employees with the objective of finding a lasting solution to the dispute. The Committee has noted the concerns raised by other stakeholders who have not yet signed and wish to encourage all parties to conclude the Peace Accord in order to move forward with the negotiations.

The committee expresses its appreciation to the CCMA, religious leaders, traditional leaders, labour movements (COSATU, FEDUSA, NACTU federations, NUM, UASA, Solidarity and AMCU unions) and all parties who continue to work tirelessly to ensure that an amicable solution is found to the dispute and that stability prevails in Marikana.

The IMC notes that the stakeholders of the MarikanaPeace Accord jointly commit themselves to dialogue to eliminate violence and the violation of rights of all stakeholders.

“We congratulate the negotiating team for having come this far and call on all stakeholders to stay committed to finding a peaceful resolution and fulfilling the commitments agreed to in the Peace Accord.” says Chairperson of the IMC Minister in The Presidency, Collins Chabane.

The Committee is concerned with the growing trend of violent protests in the gold and platinum mining sectors over the past weeks, and urge all stakeholders involved to engage in discussion and resolve issues peacefully.

Government continues to monitor the situation closely and will maintain its engagement with all stakeholders in all disputes. Government calls on mine owners and workers to keep working together to ensure that the material conditions of workers are improved to ensure that our mines are productive and competitive. The improvement of conditions for workers should be viewed within the context of the country’s efforts to address poverty, unemployment and social inequality. Decent working conditions and the maintenance of labour peace are equally vital in our efforts to grow the economy and create more jobs.

This weekend, the remaining 8 victims of the Marikana tragedy will be laid to rest. Government is working with families to ensure that such funerals are conducted with the necessary dignity. Government will continue to provide support to bereaved families and transport to some of the miners to attend the funerals.

Government wishes those who were injured and are still in health facilities a speedy recovery.The committee would like to thank the South African public and leaders for the support they have rendered to the families and the work of the committee.

Enquiries: Harold Maloka – 082 847 9799 or harold@po.gov.za, maloka.harold@gmail.com

Issued by: the Inter-Ministerial Committee