HOSPERSA MEMBERS CALL OFF SANPARKS STRIKE ACTION

Hospersa members at South African National Parks (SANParks) have ended the strike action. Members affiliated to the Union ended the week-long strike to protect the gains made during the negotiations. The Union will now focus on getting the tourism giant to address other work-related issues for improved working conditions of its members.

Hospersa members at SANParks have called off the industrial action. This is after evaluating the impact of strike on their income and the likelihood of SANParks presenting an improved offer. SANParks’ final offer was a 6,1% increase and a 1% pay progression increase for qualifying employees. Hospersa members were willing to settle for a 7,5% increase across the board.

“After consulting with our members, a decision was taken to end the industrial action,” said Hospersa General Secretary Noel Desfontaines. “Our members took a view that protecting the gains made during these negotiations outweighs the losses which they would have suffered if the strike was prolonged. We will continue to engage SANParks on finding a better system to address the salary disparities instead of the 1% pay progression put forward,” added Desfontaines.

“We commend members who showed commitment and unity during the strike. We will continue to fight for their rights to better remuneration and improved working conditions at the tourism organisation,” concluded Desfontaines.