The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) condemns in the strongest possible terms the conduct of Gold Reef City management in its ongoing dispute with workers organised under our affiliate, THORN.
The actions of the employer represent a clear case of bad faith bargaining and an unacceptable attempt to undermine workers’ unity, dignity, and lawful industrial action.
After more than a month of sustained strike action, THORN members had demonstrated their willingness to reach a resolution and forthwith bring an end to the dispute. Acting in good faith, the workers agreed to accept the offer that had previously been tabled by management prior to the commencement of the strike, which included a 50% bonus pay and back pay. This acceptance was made with the intention of ending hostilities and allowing workers to return to their posts under mutually agreed terms.
However, in a shocking display of bad faith, Gold Reef City management reneged on its own proposal and sought to unilaterally reduce the offer that had already been placed on the table. This tactic is nothing short of a deliberate provocation, designed to frustrate negotiations, weaken workers’ resolve, and force concessions through economic pressure.
SAFTU rejects this conduct outright. Collective bargaining is founded on trust, consistency, and good faith engagement. When an employer places an offer on the table, workers are entitled to rely on that offer as the basis for negotiation. To withdraw or dilute it after workers have accepted it is not only unethical but fundamentally undermines the integrity of the bargaining process.
It is therefore entirely justified that THORN members have resolved to continue with the strike. Workers cannot be expected to return to work under conditions where the employer has demonstrated such blatant disregard for negotiated commitments. To do so would set a dangerous precedent, allowing employers to manipulate negotiations with impunity.
SAFTU further notes that the strike has now persisted for over a month, placing enormous financial and emotional strain on workers and their families. The responsibility for this prolonged dispute lies squarely with Gold Reef City management, whose intransigence and bad faith tactics have obstructed a resolution that was within reach.
This dispute also reflects a broader pattern within the hospitality and entertainment sector, where workers are often subjected to low wages, precarious conditions, and exploitative labour practices. Employers in these sectors frequently rely on delay tactics and bargaining manipulation to wear down workers, rather than engaging honestly and constructively.
SAFTU calls on Gold Reef City management to immediately return to the original offer that was placed on the table and to engage in genuine, good faith negotiations with THORN.
We also call on the broader working-class movement and the public to stand in solidarity with the striking workers at Gold Reef City. An injury to one is an injury to all. The outcome of this struggle will have implications far beyond this workplace, shaping the future of collective bargaining and workers’ rights in South Africa.
SAFTU will continue to support THORN and its members in their just struggle until a fair and honourable resolution is reached.
A statement was issued on behalf of SAFTU by the General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi.
For media inquiries, contact:
National Spokesperson
Newton Masuku
newtonm@saftu.org.za
0661682157
Media Officer
Asive Dyani
0719019564
