The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has expressed deep concern over the future of the Assmang Beeshoek Iron Ore Mine near Postmasburg in the Northern Cape.

The mine is facing a potential closure, putting 688 jobs — and the livelihoods of hundreds of workers—at risk. This development threatens severe economic consequences for the region.

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Retrenchment notice issued

Assmang has issued a Section 189(3) notice under the Labour Relations Act, indicating its intention to begin consultations on the possible retrenchment of 688 employees.

The retrenchments stem from the financial difficulties of ArcelorMittal South Africa, the mine’s sole major client.

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NUM has described this as more than a corporate decision. “The closure of Beeshoek Mine would deal a severe blow to the local community, and we will not stand by while nearly 700 jobs are erased with the stroke of a pen,” the union stated.

NUM’s position and demands

“Our top priority is to protect the jobs, dignity, and futures of our members. Retrenchment must be a last resort — not a default option,” NUM emphasised.

The union is demanding full transparency from Assmang, including:

• A clear commercial justification for the proposed retrenchments and why alternatives were rejected.
• Reasons for considering “Care and Maintenance” instead of closure.
• A precise count of affected employees.
• The anticipated impact on the community and long-term outsourced contracts.
• Details on severance pay, selection criteria, and benefits (including medical aid and long-term policies).

Exploring alternatives

NUM will engage in consultations to push for viable alternatives, such as:

• Freezing recruitment and overtime
• Redeployment within Assmang or other ARM joint ventures
• Offering reskilling opportunities and voluntary separation packages

The union also expects the employer to provide robust social support measures for affected workers. “No worker will face this process alone,” NUM stated.

They further reminded Assmang that the consultation must be meaningful and in good faith, warning that any attempt to undermine it will face legal challenge through the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration or Labour Court.

Next steps

NUM will participate fully in the consultation process and is prepared to oppose any unfair retrenchments. Members will be updated continuously. If necessary, collective action will be considered.

The union also urged the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to fulfil its oversight obligations under Section 52 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA).

NUM called on its members at Beeshoek Mine to remain calm, united, and vigilant. “Your union is at the table and will fight tirelessly to ensure transparency and fairness. Retrenchment must remain the last resort.”