Labour Deputy Minister Alfredah Kansembe says government is happy that no job has been lost following protests at Barrick Lumwana mine in Solwezi district.
Ms Kansembe said Barrick Lumwana mine has indicated that no employee will be dismissed for participating in the protest.
She said no employee has been suspended but that written warnings have been served as a deterrent measure.
Ms Kansembe said it is government’s desire to see peace and harmony prevailing in a workplace as this will guarantee continued productivity.
She was speaking in Solwezi yesterday after holding a meeting with Barrick Lumwana mine management.
And Ms Kansembe has called on employers to stop interfering in union matters by deciding which union an employee should belong to.
She said some employers have taken advantage of the many trade unions in the labour market and are apportioning members.
Ms Kansembe said every employee has a constitutional right to belong a union of their choice and that it not for management to decide for them.
And Barrick Lumwana mine Managing Director Bill MacNevin said the mine has started implementing some of the recommendations made during the meeting held in Lusaka.
Mr MacNevin said the mine is working on reducing the presence of police on the site which workers felt was intimidating.
Ms Kansembe was in Solwezi to see the progress made on issues discussed during the meeting held between Ministry of Labour and Lumwana mine management in Lusaka and also meet union leaders.
What about jobs lost at kansanshi acid plants and exploration? Is the government aware or needs the former employees to protest for them to know. ECL was at the mine today hopefully not for the brown envelope. someone please talk to this lady or woman.
Stop dancing to the tune of these mine companies.