Proposed retrenchments prompt underground sit-in at Mpumalanga colliery

SABC News reports that workers at Vlakfontein Coal Mine, near Ogies in Mpumalanga, have staged an underground sit-in.  The disgruntled workers are employed by Concor Opencast Mining, which is a sub-contractor of state owned mine, African Exploration.  Their grievances include proposed retrenchments.  Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) shop steward at the local Ogies branch, Ernest Mogale, said the workers were prepared to sit underground until their demands are met.  "The employer should come clean with us.  Due to our efforts their contract has been extended by two years.  However, instead of rewarding us for our efforts, they are talking about retrenchments.  We will fight this thing in court, they must not touch any of our members," said Mogale.