WINDHOEK – Pupkewitz MegaBuild and Builders Warehouse signed a recognition agreement last week with the Metal and Allied Namibian Workers Union (Manwu).
The union now has the majority membership among employees at the two companies. “This agreement was reached with consensus of both parties because we have the same objectives, which are to enhance the standing of our employees through fair remuneration and offering of training for career prospects in order to build a path for long-term careers, without which the company would not be successful,” said the chairperson of M. Pupkewitz & Sons (Pty) Ltd and the joint managing director of Pupkewitz MegaBuild, Ian Gallagher. Maureen Paulman, deputy general secretary of Manwu said the signing agreement is indeed an achievement as it strengthens the already sound labour relations between the employer and its employees.
She emphasized though: “From today onward, this is hard work as the Procedural Agreement does not imply that we can do what we want to, but that both parties have to adhere to what is outlined in this document.”
A very contented shop steward, Stefanus Frans, commented that although recruiting members was not easy, he tried his best and did not give up. However, he was happy that managers and shop stewards can now discuss any issues at an open table as per the agreed procedures.