Never mind facts, let’s strike because we can
27 September 2021
The leadership of the National Union of Metalworkers (Numsa) with a membership of 300 000 people – all with families – has declared its intention to down tools for an indefinite period from October 5th, a decision that will directly affect more than 1.5 million people —and much more indirectly
Numsa leaders have rejected as “insulting” a wage offer of a 4.4% increase for 2021, another 0.5% plus whatever the consumer price index ( CPI) is next year, and a further 1% plus the CPI in 2023.
The last time Numsa went on strike seven years ago it cost the industry R300 million every day it lasted (the final total was R6 billion). A roaring success, no doubt fondly remembered by union leaders.
But nobody won anything then, and no one will win anything this time if the strike goes ahead.