South African World Cup construction workers strike for 2nd day as union meets for talks
By APThursday, July 9, 2009
World Cup workers strike for 2nd day in SAfrica
JOHANNESBURG — World Cup organizers in South Africa say a strike by construction workers entered its second day as negotiators meet to try and resolve the standoff.
The strike has halted work on World Cup stadiums and organizers fear that a prolonged strike could derail major projects ahead of the 2010 tournament — the first World Cup on the continent.
Lesiba Seshoka, a union spokesman, says meetings are under way with the local World Cup organizing committee and government labor representatives. Workers are demanding a 13 percent pay increase but employers are offering 10.4 percent.
The historic first World Cup to be held in Africa is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to the country next year for the monthlong event.
