Pretoria - The Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Marikana tragedy led by Minister in the Presidency, Collins Chabane, has welcomed the conclusion of the negotiated wage settlement between the Marikana miners and Lonmin mine management.
The IMC said the deal marked the end of a six-week long strike, which has seen the unfortunate loss of over 40 lives.
"The deal, which was signed on Tuesday, 18 September 2012 was achieved through the tireless efforts of the CCMA, religious leaders, traditional leaders, labour movements (COSATU, FEDUSA, NACTU federations, NUM, UASA, Solidarity and AMCU unions) and worker representatives," the IMC said in a statement.
It expressed its appreciation to all parties involved for finally finding a solution to this matter, noting that this has given concrete expression to what the country is known for, which is resolving differences through dialogue.
"The IMC is quite pleased and relieved that this matter has finally come to an end and wishes to congratulate all parties who were involved. This matter, we believe, as also expressed by the negotiators, has presented challenges to all of us and our nation," said Chabane, adding that there were important lessons to be drawn from this experience.
The IMC also expressed its appreciation to all South Africans for their support during this difficult period.
"Government continues to make the call that all disputes in our society should be resolved through dialogue."
Lonmin Platinum mine and union representatives on Tuesday signed a wage increase. The miners are expected to return to work tomorrow.
In terms of the agreement, the lowest worker would earn R9 611 and the highest R13 022 before deductions and the agreement is effective from 1 October 2012.
Also as part of the agreement, all workers will receive a once-off R2 000 bonus.
Rock drill operators will now earn R11 078, production team leaders R13 022 and operators R9 883.
