On the 7th August 2008, CWU & SACU resumed talks with Telkom and debates continued for the entire day.

Yesterday (08/08/2008) the parties met to refine the “Pro-Forma” agreement drafted on the 7/8/2008, and one of the key achievements reached by CWU & SACU in this process was being able to convince Telkom negotiators to remove the word “average” from clauses making reference to the 11% and the 0.5% salary increases.

This effectively means that all CWU & SACU members in the Bargaining Unit will get 11%  backdated to the 1st of April 2008 and a further 0.5% salary from the 1st of October 2008 respectively. Parties have agreed to resume and engage on the possibility of backdating the 0.5% to June 2008.

The salary increments will be extended to items with monetary value on the “Total Package” concept applied by Telkom, e.g. Medical aid.

On “Gainsharing” (Another aspect with monetary value to workers), parties have agreed to refer the matter  for Advisory Arbitration, and to further engage on the principles, formula and eligibility of receiving “Gainsharing”. Both matters will be concluded by 30th September 2008.

CWU & SACU signed the agreement with a clear caution to the employer, that the salary increments inclusive (11.5%) is still below the current inflation rate which is standing at 11.6%. The struggle continues when we meet Telkom in the forth coming substantive negotiations, which will include salary increments.

CWU & SACU salute the strength and support demonstrated by its members during the Stay Away from the 1st to 4th August 2008.