Main Agreement 2021: A Comprehensive Guide
The Main Agreement is a collective agreement between the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) and the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (SEIFSA). The agreement covers the terms and conditions of employment for workers in the metal and engineering industry. The Main Agreement is updated every three years, and the latest version, Main Agreement 2021, was signed in July 2021.
In this article, we will guide you through the key features of Main Agreement 2021, including the wage increases, the duration of the agreement, and the new provisions.
Wage Increases
One of the most significant changes in Main Agreement 2021 is the wage increases. The agreement provides for a 4.4% increase in the first year, a 4.5% increase in the second year, and a 4.6% increase in the third year. This is higher than the rate of inflation, which is currently around 3%.
The wage increases will be implemented from 1 July 2021 and will apply to all workers in the metal and engineering industry covered by the Main Agreement. The increases will be backdated to 1 July 2021 for workers who were employed on that date.
Duration of the Agreement
Main Agreement 2021 will be in force for a period of three years, from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2024. This means that the terms and conditions of employment covered by the agreement will apply during this period. After this, a new Main Agreement will need to be negotiated and signed.
New Provisions
Main Agreement 2021 introduces several new provisions that aim to improve working conditions for workers in the metal and engineering industry. These provisions include:
1. A new dispute resolution process: The agreement provides for a new dispute resolution process that aims to resolve disputes quickly and efficiently. This process includes conciliation, mediation, and arbitration.
2. A new minimum wage for learners and apprentices: The agreement introduces a new minimum wage for learners and apprentices, which will be 60% of the minimum wage for qualified workers. This is a significant improvement from the previous Main Agreement, which did not provide for a minimum wage for learners and apprentices.
3. Improved maternity leave: The agreement increases the maternity leave period from 4 to 6 months. This is a welcome development, as it will give new mothers more time to bond with their babies and recover from childbirth.
Conclusion
Main Agreement 2021 is a significant development for the metal and engineering industry. The wage increases, duration of the agreement, and new provisions will improve working conditions for workers and ensure that the industry remains competitive. As a professional, it`s essential to stay up to date with the latest developments in labor laws and collective agreements to ensure that your content is accurate and relevant.