Kenya's ports workers threaten to strike
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) employees have threatened to go on strike unless a salary dispute is resolved. Dock Workers Union Secretary-General, Mr Simon Sang, said he had written to the Labour minister, Mr John Munyes, seeking his intervention following a deadlock in the negotiations with KPA. There has been a standoff since February 20 when workers demanded a salary increase of between 47 and 74 per cent. They also want house allowance doubled.
On its part, KPA has offered a 20 per cent salary increase. Recently, KPA and the union locked horns over the introduction of a seven-day work schedule that would make Saturday and Sunday working days.
This was, however, suspended following confusion at the port.
Sang said the union had issued a 21-day notice to their employer in accordance with the Trade Relations Act.
"We have exhausted avenues for negotiations and sought the intervention of the Ministry of Labour," he said.
He says the difference between the lowest paid management staff and a union member ranged from 112 to 147 per cent, adding that this was against labour laws.
On its part, KPA has offered a 20 per cent salary increase. Recently, KPA and the union locked horns over the introduction of a seven-day work schedule that would make Saturday and Sunday working days.
This was, however, suspended following confusion at the port.
Sang said the union had issued a 21-day notice to their employer in accordance with the Trade Relations Act.
"We have exhausted avenues for negotiations and sought the intervention of the Ministry of Labour," he said.
He says the difference between the lowest paid management staff and a union member ranged from 112 to 147 per cent, adding that this was against labour laws.