Public sector wage negotiations have hit a snag as government and unions fail to find common ground.

Unions, representing over a million workers, have demanded a 12% increase, while the government is offering just 3%. Talks kicked off this week and are expected to run for two weeks. Facilitators will be brought in to prevent a stalemate.

Unions are also demanding a R2 500 housing allowance, doubled danger allowance, bursaries for dependents, and reinstated performance bonuses.

Teacher union, NAPTOSA’s Basil Manuel insists that the 12% demand is justified, citing five years without above-inflation increases.

Unions have urged the government to negotiate to avoid labour unrest.

These talks come as South Africa will soon see over 13 000 teacher posts being cut nationally.