Tag (SQ): collective bargaining

Apex Mining Corporation Limited owns and operates integrated facilities of mining of coal and iron ore along with power generation and distribution facilities. Although these facilities have been developed at a substantial investment cost, the management has been indifferent to the conditions of its workforce of 1,200 employees.

A major accident in the coal mines, which occurred recently, resulting in the death of 110 workers, has triggered wide-spread resentment and agitation among the workers due to the poor safety conditions and they have demanded strict compliance with the Mine Safety Rules and Regulations. Due to the aggressive attitude of the striking workers and to safeguard its assets, the Company has deployed private armed guards at a considerable cost.

After 28 days of complete closure of all mining and other business activities due to stand-off and strikes, the management and the Workers’ Union have agreed to enter into negotiations through a process of collective bargaining.

Required:

(a) State four factors which, in your opinion, are responsible for the indifferent attitude of the management of Apex Mining Corporation Limited towards its workers.

(b) Briefly describe five different measures that the management should take to satisfy the demands of the workers and help to achieve a conducive working environment.