NUM: Gold One mine committed to beefing up security at Modder East operation

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said the Gold One mine at the centre of a recent hostage drama made a commitment to beef up security at the Modder East operation in Springs.

This after more than 500 workers were trapped underground for three days amid a labour dispute between rival unions – the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).

AMCU is fighting for organizing rights at the gold mine where NUM is the only recognized union representing workers.

Though the impasse was resolved when all the miners resurfaced earlier in the week, the dispute remains unresolved, sparking fears of another incident at the mine.

NUM’s Victor Ngwane said workers affiliated with the union will return to work after the company addresses safety concerns, as promised.

“The company has committed to issues of safety. The reason why they have taken the stance of calling back people systematically is also to deal with the safety matter and check if there is an element that seeks to indicate that it is not safe.

“We will immediately stop the operation and request the mine to stop people from going underground until they have addressed those issues.”

-EWN

In other news – Actress Lerato Mvelase opens up about her tough times

Well-known award-winning South African actress Lerato Mvelase recently reflected on how far she has come. In a recent interview on DJ Fresh’s WAW (What a Week) podcast, she was asked when things were tough, how tough they were, and the actress instantly went to her childhood.

“You know my nature is that of handling things , so I handle things myself and that’s just who I am. My mom raised me like that and I suppose having to take care of my family from such an early age, you have to be strong. Read More