Sentech employees will receive a hike in basic salary of between 7,5% and 8% following resolution of a pay dispute that led unionised workers to strike.

“Following two and half weeks of strike action at Sentech by the employees affiliated to the Communication Workers Union, the company is pleased to announce that the parties concluded an agreement on 13 August 2014,” the company said in a statement. “This brings an end to the strike and, as a result, the company will operate at full capacity effective 14 August.”

In terms of the agreement, employees who are in the bargaining unit who are on lower pay grades will receive an 8% increase on basic salary. Those on higher grades will get 7,5%. All affected employees will also get R1 450/month in the form of a housing allowance.

“In addition, a bonus will be paid out to all the members of the bargaining unit on the basis of the company’s performance during the financial year 2013/2014,” Sentech said.

“With regards to the contentious issue of the thirteenth cheque, the parties have agreed on a process that will result in a phased introduction of an enabling facility subject to matters related to definition, form, structure and funding model being dealt within a prescribed period,” it said.

“The parties have agreed that there will be no industrial action in relation to the thirteenth cheque matter until at least the end of the 2015/2016 financial year. This provides sufficient time for the two parties to deal with the matter.”