Friday, March 19, 2010

COSATU outraged by Metro Rail price hike

By Kim Saulse
19 March 2010

COSATU in the Western Cape has warned that it will oppose the intended fare increases by Metro Rail expected to come into effect on April, 1.

In a media statement, the Trade Union Federation also vowed to “bring the economy to a standstill” and threatened to embark on strike action if Metro Rail continued with the “ill considered increases”.

They attributed their opposition to the price hike because of a reduction in service levels as opposed to an increase, and severe overcrowding on trains.

“The increases are way in excess of the inflation rate and will have a greater impact on poorer communities.

“Should there be a need for greater increases these have to be justified and if need be, phased in over a few years,” the union stated.

Furthermore, COSATU said the Eskom, taxi and bus increases would put commuters and workers in an unfavorable situation.

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