Members of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in South Africa have rejected a pay offer from Impala Platinum (Implats).

Workers refused to agree to a revised wage deal worth between eight and ten per cent, sticking to their demands for a 14 per cent rise.

The wage negotiations have now been referred to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

"Members have unanimously rejected the offers and persuaded the negotiators to refer the dispute to the CCMA ... which paves the way for a massive strike," said NUM chief negotiator Eddie Majadibodu in a statement.

Meanwhile, Anglo American Platinum (Amplats) has increased its pay offer to workers in a bid to stave off industrial action in South Africa.

"There is an improved offer ... it will be taken to members for consideration," NUM spokesman Lesiba Seshoka told Reuters

At the same time, the NUM has lowered its demands to between 11 and 12.5 per cent, bringing the two sides closer to averting strikes.

A vote on the revised deal will start today (August 22nd), before the union meets officials from Amplats on August 31st.

Sources:

SAfrican mine union rejects revised Implats pay offer (19/08/11)

UPDATE 2-Amplats ups offer in S.Africa platinum pay talks (19/08/11)

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