The Solidarity union struck a three-year wage agreement on behalf of its members at the Kroondal platinum mine in South Africa, owned by Sibanye Gold Ltd.'s Sibanye Platinum unit, Mining Weekly reported Oct. 18.

The agreement, which takes effect from July 1, will be valid until June 30, 2020.

Under the contract terms, employees in category A will receive a 6% wage increase during the first year, with an increase of 6% or a Consumer Price Index increase limited to 7%, depending on whichever is the higher amount, in the subsequent two years.

The salaries of the employees in category B will increase by 1,000 South African rand across the board each year.

Additionally, Sibanye will increase its contribution to the employees' medical fund by 50 rand, effective July 1, while female workers will also be eligible for four-month maternity leaves, with the company to pay the difference between the Unemployment Insurance Fund allowance and the worker's salary.