Rustenburg - Labour department officials met resistance on Monday from angry Lonmin mineworkers who wanted nothing but a wage increase.
Director general Nkosinathi Nhleko and Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration commissioner Abdul Soobedar tried to explain labour processes to the impatient miners.
“We do not have hope in the CCMA... many people lost their jobs at Karee mine back in 2007,” said one miner.
“If this is what you only have for us as government, then go.... People were killed. We are not here for games,” said another.
The mineworkers said they wanted nothing from Lonmin and the government but a R12 500 wage increase.
“All we want is for this to be resolved and we ask you to be patient.... We are committed to help you solve this problem,” said Soobedar.
Nhleko said negotiations were continuing.
“The parties are aware of your demand..., but Lonmin has not indicated how much they have yet.”
The workers said it would be difficult to continue working for Lonmin while it “refuses” to speak to them.
“Let the company close down if it refuses to give us the R12 500.” - Sapa