uShaka Marine World closes doors amid workers' protest

DURBAN - Popular Durban tourist spot uShaka Marine World has been shut down after workers downed tools over salary disputes.

Wednesday’s demonstration follows months of unsuccessful salary negotiations between worker unions and the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. 

The workers are demanding a 15 %salary increase.

 At least two Go Durban buses, carrying a group of tourists arrived at the tourist site to scenes of striking workers.

Earlier this week, the municipality announced that uShaka Marine World would be closed for the safety of guests. 

Regional secretary of the South African Municipal Workers Union Xolani Dube said the entity would remain closed until workers’ demands are met.

“It is up to the employer to come to the table; we’ve got an open-door policy as SAMWU. We are still open for negotiations. If they come today [Wednesday] and give us the implementation date that may bring the strike to an end.”

 The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality is yet to comment on the strike.