Matabeleland mining companies fire 600 workers

Mining companies in Matabeleland region have reportedly joined the spate of firing workers, sending home about 600 using the recent Supreme Court ruling that employers can terminate employees' contracts after giving three months' notice.

Last month, the Supreme Court bench ruled unanimously on the common law position that employers and employees have the same rights when terminating contracts.

Close to 20 000 workers have so far been fired using the July 17 Supreme Court ruling.

According to sources close to the developments, Turkey Mine has reportedly fired close to 500 while Carry Mine and Queens' Mine have fired about 100 and 20 respectively.

Queens' Mine reportedly sent middle management on unpaid forced leave.