Yesterday’s regrettable unrest at Amplats in Rustenburg was to be expected.

State of the Nation Address By His Excellency Jacob G Zuma, President of the Republic of South Africa on the occasion

UASA welcomes the agreement facilitated by the CCMA today between Harmony Gold Mines “ Kusasalethu” and four unions, including UASA, leading to 5 000 jobs being saved.

President Jacob Zuma’s State of the Nation address this week should include a more resolute, firm and no nonsense approach

Government’s idea of implementing a higher tax for graduates is simply proof that it will stop at nothing to lay its hands on more hard-earned money of South Africa’s workers, with very little to show in return.

UASA accuses BECSA of reckless and irresponsible behaviour and that it invited labour unrest and strikes.

The biggest problem with Eskom is an ideological one. Government is so set on the control of this strategic institution that it prefers to rely solely on funding from user tariffs.

UASA welcomes Amplats’ announcement that it will postpone its restructuring process and the possible retrenchment of 14 000 workers, including 5 000 UASA members, with 60 days.

The retrenchment of 538 Denel employees as of 14 February 2013, confirmed by Major Gen Mbambo (Acting Chief of the Air Force) from the South Africa Air Force earlier this week, will without a doubt jeopardise the South African Air Force’s defence capabilities.

UASA will fight tooth and nail to defend its members’ rights after Amplats announced its plans to reduce its mining and processing footprint by retrenching  a total of 14 000 workers. The process Amplats intends to follow is flawed and not in accordance with labour legislation.

The ANC’s announcement of the establishment of an integrity commission sends out very noble and strong signals.

UASA strongly opposes the intimidation of our members who choose not to take part in the farm worker strikes in the Western Cape.

The carnage on South Africa’s roads during the festive season and during the rest of the year can’t simply be blamed on hooligan drivers.

On Thursday, 2 January 2013, South Africa’s 2012 matriculants will know their fate.

Many matriculants will go on to tertiary education, while others will enter the rather bleak-looking job market. Both ways, informed choices are required.

The ANC has a responsibility towards South Africans to emerge from its national conference in Mangaung with a realistic and workable plan for the country.