The Congress of South African Trade Unions wishes the National Union of Mineworkers a successful and productive Special National Congress(SNC). The two-day congress starts today at the Birchwood Conference Centre, in Boksburg.
This SNC is a continuation of the unfinished Elective National Congress that was held at the same venue last year.
We salute the NUM for convening this gathering to continue to finalise the outstanding work that was not finished by the 17th National Congress. This showcases the union’s unwavering adherence to the federation’s founding and treasured principles of worker control, and internal democracy.
The Federation wishes all delegates constructive deliberations and coming out of this congress, we expect a united and fighting NUM that is ready to defend workers and their rights.
This Congress also takes place at a time when South Africa is struggling with electricity cuts. Electricity is the lifeblood of our economy and is essential for the resuscitation of the ailing economy. This has exacerbated our unemployment with the latest statistics showing that we are sitting with an unemployment rate of 32%.
We trust that the NUM will discuss these matters and come out with ideas and proposals that will help the nation find lasting solutions. The Federation wants a strong and solid NUM that will contribute to the cause of liberating the working class from the shackles of oppression and exploitation.
We wish all the delegates cordial and productive deliberations.
Long Live NUM, Long Live!
Issued by COSATU
Sizwe Pamla (Cosatu National Spokesperson)
Tel: 011 339 4911
Fax: 011 339 5080
Cell: 060 975 6794