A nationwide bus strike has been averted for now as wage talks have shifted to constructive.

It comes just ahead of the Easter long weekend which sees an increase in long distance travel. The National Union of Metalworkers (Numsa) says this comes after the employer tabled a revised across the board increase of 4.5%.

The South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council general secretary, Gary Wilson, says workers want to see what they are going to get out, especially in today’s economic situation.

Numsa is engaging its workers on the new offer. It is expected to respond to the employer on April 22nd.