By Katlego Legodi

This comes after the medium-term budget policy statement introduced last year had earmarked a 4.7% salary increase for public servants.

The first round of 2025 negotiations was held in a marathon session facilitated by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) within the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council. The SA Police Union was also involved in the discussions, which focused on critical issues such as cost-of-living adjustments and multi-term agreements.

The unions are seeking a three-year deal, with salary increases in the outer years linked to inflation rates. Housing allowances and danger pay were also on the table for negotiation, but the government has not yet confirmed if this is their final offer for the current round of talks. Union representatives remain hopeful that further negotiations will lead to a more favourable outcome, guided by the feedback of their members.

As 2024 ended, public servants faced growing uncertainty after months of wage discussions, with many expressing dissatisfaction over the government's stance on public sector wages. The Public Servants Association highlighted the pressure on workers, particularly with rising medical aid costs, and warned that any deal must adequately address the financial strain on public servants.

Unions aim to conclude the negotiations before the 2025 budget speech, with members set to decide whether to accept or reject the 5% offer, a decision that could determine the future of the talks.

--ChannelAfrica--