MUN, Trigon Metals resolve labour dispute over retrenched workers

The Mine Workers Union of Namibia (MUN) has reached an agreement with Trigon Metals, bringing an end to a labour dispute in which 533 employees faced retrenchment.

MUN general secretary George Ampweya confirms the resolution, stating that the agreement guarantees workers will be compensated for any confirmed accrued leave days up to 31 January.

He says affected employees will receive one month’s notice pay, severance benefits equivalent to one week’s salary for each year of service, as well as payment for all outstanding overtime.

Additionally, all retrenched workers will undergo exit medical examinations, with all costs covered by the employer.

“In a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, an agreement has been reached between Trigon Metals Kombat Mine and MUN on behalf of its 533 retrenched employees, successfully resolving the labour dispute,” Ampweya says.

He says the agreement also ensures that Trigon Metals will provide all affected employees with their 2024/2025 Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) 5 certificates to assist with tax return filings.

Any outstanding tax-related payments or unpaid salaries would be settled accordingly.

Instead of arranging relocation support, each retrenched worker will receive a payment of N$2 500 to assist with their transition to their respective places of origin.

Ampweya says revised certificates of service will be issued to correct any inaccuracies in employment start dates.

Furthermore, a recall list of retrenched employees will be maintained for 12 months from 31 January, giving them priority consideration for rehiring should the company resume operations.

Ampweya also addressed concerns about workplace injuries, stating that “any injury-on-duty claims are encouraged to be reported and will be addressed on a case-by-case basis, requiring investigation and assessments by an occupational medical practitioner.”

To ensure full transparency, all affected employees will receive detailed payslips reflecting the total amounts due under the agreement.

Ampweya says all retrenchment packages should be paid on or before 25 February, subject to income tax deductions.

“This agreement ensures that workers receive fair compensation and support in this difficult transition,” he adds.