Impala Platinum workers in South Africa have lowered their demands and are now holding out for a pay rise of 15 per cent, Bloomberg reports today (20th July).

Miners at the world's second-biggest producer of the precious metal had stated last week that they were determined to see their wages increased by 17 per cent.

However, National Union of Mineworkers Spokesman Lesiba Seshoka told the news provider that they will to discuss a compromise with the company at a meeting tomorrow.

Mr Seshoka added that if Impala fails to improve on its most recent offer of an 8.5 per cent rise, there is a very real possibility that the workers will down tools and go on strike.

The pgm industry in South Africa is traditionally sensitive towards developments in wage negotiations as any strike would have a significant impact on production volumes.

Sources:

Impala Platinum Workers Lower Wage Demand to 15%, Union Says (20/07/09)

Impala Improves Worker Wage Offer to 8.5%, Union Says (Update1) (17/07/09)

DJ South African Union Take Implats Pay Dispute To Mediator (25/06/09)

NUM says Two Rivers wage talks suspended, declares dispute with Implats (17/06/09)

S.Africa union declares wage dispute against Implats (17/06/09)

SAfrica miners seek 20 pct wage hike from Implats (09/06/09)

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