Tag: Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU)

While alcohol-related offences can sometimes merit dismissal, this is not always the case. For example, where the employee has clinically been shown to be an alcoholic, treatment rather than punishment should be implemented. This is due to the employee’s incapacity. However, incapacity is not the only factor that could render such a dismissal unfair.

On 12 November 2021, the Constitutional Court held in favour of mining employers in a historic secondary strike judgment (Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union and Others v Anglo Gold Ashanti Limited t/a Anglo Gold Ashanti and Others [2021] ZACC 42).

Lockdown rendered many things impossible, among them the ability for unions to 'show up' for their members in what has traditionally been the status quo for negotiation in South Africa: the organised strike. In many countries across the globe and particularly in South Africa, the ability to organise a strike is where a union best demonstrates its strength.

The Constitutional Court delivered judgement in the case of Association of Mine Workers and Construction Union and Others v Royal Bafokeng Platinum Mine Limited and Others. In this matter, the constitutionality of Section 189(1) of the Labour Relations Act (LRA) was debated.

South African industrial action has become synonymous with violent, unlawful conduct, as was discussed in the recent case of Association of Mineworkers & Construction Union & Others v KPMM Road & Earthworks (JA 147/2017) [2018] ZALAC 28 (31 October 2018).

The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) has challenged the inclusivity of the Section 189(1) provisions of the Labour Relations Act, arguing retrenchments are so important that everyone needs to be consulted individually. But in our view, Section 189(1) is the most practical solution and in line with the principle of majoritarianism that runs throughout SA law.