21 Jul 2016

Minister of Infrastructure, Science and Technology, Mr Nonofo Molefhi has met the Botswana Mine Workers Union (BMWU)representatives to hear their grievances and come up with a way to mitigate the problems.

He called on the union and BCL management to work together and share information on how to best to improve the mine’s stature. He also said he was available to give support in mapping a way forward.

Mr Molefhi, who is also Member of Parliament for Selebi Phikwe East, said unions should share their concerns with the employer to mitigate any grievances that occurred between the two organisations.   

He said they should share expertise on issues on mining.

He said there should be a free-flow of information between the two organisations to avoid any conflicts. 

If disagreements take place,  Mr Molefhi said, there should be a way to mitigate their difference and come up with solution for benefit of the employer and employee.

He said both organisations should take the responsibility of mine workers and ensure safety of employees over costs.

He said BCL Mine was facing challenges due to the fall in commodity prices of copper and nickel in the global market.

Furthermore, he said the BCL Mine ‘shut down’ took longer than expected with costs incurred resulting in BCL Mine running at a loss for about two months that impacted on the mine coffers.

He said that was the reason why the mine had been facing challenges financially. 

He stated that this resulted in the mine getting a loan of US$100 million (over P1 billion) with government stepping in as guarantee so that BCL Mine could pay of its debts and continue its operations.

He also advised BMWU to engage their own independent consultants in regards to investigating operations and the incidents that occurred at the mine and compare their findings with consultants engaged by government, BCL Mine and the Inspector of Mines. 

He said information from both parties will help take BCL Mine to another level.

Meanwhile, Mine Workers Union president, Mr Jack Thagale said there had been job cuts looming at BCL Mine, adding that there have been rumors that BCL Mine will close down.

He said they wanted assurance that the Mine will not close down and workers would not lose their jobs. 

He also mentioned that government should put measures in place to address issues of non-payment of wages as well as non-compliance to safety procedures at the mine.

He said if government took action, they will be reassured that something was being done. ENDS