Amplats holds off on further dismissals

[miningmx.com] — ANGLO American Platinum (Amplats) said on
Thursday it would hold off on dismissing striking workers at its Union and Amandelbult
mines, but was not prepared to reconsider the reinstatement of the 12,000 former
employees it dismissed at the Rustenburg operations.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Amplats said it would expedite discussions with its
three recognise trade unions – the National Union of Mineworkers, UASA as well as
the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa – to help facilitate the return of its
Union and Amandelbult employees to work. Such negotiations would include the issue
of bringing wage talks forward. At present, attendance levels continue to be below
20%.

“To enable the process to proceed smoothly, the company has decided to delay the
dismissal process at Union and Amandelbult mines to afford these negotiations every
chance of success,’ the company said. “Anglo American Platinum confirms that while
it remains its stated position that we will not reinstate the 12000 dismissed
Rustenburg employees, the company has agreed with its recognised unions that it is
willing to discuss their status as part of this engagement.’

Said CEO Chris Griffith: “We are faced with extremely complex challenges that require
innovative solutions that will address the very real economic issues affecting the
entire platinum industry.

“We believe that it is only right for us to engage with our recognised unions and work
together to find the best way forward.’