SA workers' strike paralyzes high-speed train

JOHANNESBURG – The Gautrain workers in South Africa went on strike yesterday because of services rendered at the country's main airport, the capital Pretoria and the shopping center of Johannesburg, which welcomes business travelers

Salary negotiations with the National Union of Transport (UNTU) have been stalled in Gauteng province where the two cities are located, said the company, because of the strike. The Gautrain was unveiled in 2010 as part of the modernization of transportation in Africa's most industrialized economy The Gautrain connects those arriving at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to the financial district of Sandton.

The union workers demand a 10 percent wage increase, while the company offers an 8.5 percent increase.

UNTU Secretary General Steve Harris said the union was open to new negotiations. He added that the parties also had to hear about night allowances and housing allowances, among other things.

"We are stuck on Saturday and they did not call us at the table. We are on strike until they remind us, "said Harris – Reuters