Mining framework agreement signed

Deputy President Kgalema Mothlanthe said he hoped the agreement would see change for the better in the mining sector. (Image: GCIS)

Only one union, the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), did not sign the agreement on Wednesday, saying it needed to consult with its members.

The agreement sets out key steps and processes that will see all parties working together to ensure the stability and sustainability of the mining industry.

As part of the agreement, parties will desist from provocation, violence, intimidation and murder, and are to actively discourage members from taking the law into their own hands.

Government will act decisively to enforce the rule of law, maintain peace during strikes and other protests relating to labour disputes and ensure the protection of life, property and the advancement of the rights of all.

AMCU and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) have been at loggerheads over membership at the Lonmin Mine in the North West.

Addressing the media after the signing of the agreement at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, Deputy President Kgalema Mothlanthe said he hoped the agreement would see change for the better in the mining sector.

Mothlanthe expressed confidence that AMCU would, after consulting with their members, come to the party and sign the agreement.

"We are expecting AMCU to get back soon," Mothlanthe said.

Parties that signed the agreement are NUM, the Chamber of Mines, Federation of Unions of SA, Congress of SA Trade Unions and Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu.

President Jacob Zuma tasked Motlanthe with leading talks between unions and mining companies.

This was in a bid to strike a peace deal between the mining companies and unions.

Also present at the meeting was Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Jeff Radebe and Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant.