20100830
africanews

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's government and unions representing 1.3 million striking state workers began talks on Monday night following President Jacob Zuma's order to ministers to negotiate immediately to end the walkout.

Union officials hoped the negotiations will lead to an improved offer to end the labour dispute that has closed schools, prevented treatment at hospitals and harmed investor sentiment towards Africa's largest economy.

"I have reason to be optimistic because the employer called us to a meeting," said Manie De Clerq, a spokesman for the Public Servants Association.

Public Service Minister Richard Baloyi said in a statement the government will bring a new offer to the table, without offering details. He held informal discussions with union bosses to pave the way for the official bargaining session.

So far, the government has said it cannot afford the demand for increases of more than double inflation to end the strike, which threatens to spread across the economy.

Even if the government raises its offer, the unions are unlikely to respond quickly as they would need to consult their rank and file members.

Zuma's spokesman said the president was particularly concerned about the strike's impact on health and education.

"The president's view is that the strike must end as soon as possible, in the next couple of days," Zizi Kodwa said, adding that Zuma had spoken to government ministers at the weekend to tell them to resume talks.