• Editor’s note: This live event will be broadcast live on eNCA.com and was expected to start at 3pm. This stream will commence once proceedings get underway. 

JOHANNESBURG – Unions participating in a crippling national bus strike are set to update the public and media on progress in wage negotiations on Friday afternoon. 

On Thursday, employers tabled a new wage offer. 

#BusStrike So at 3pm today 5 unions representing striking bus drivers will reveal whether their members have accepted or rejected the latest offer from employers.

— silindelo masikane (@Slindelo_M) May 11, 2018

The start of the press briefing was, however, delayed, as unions said they are still awaiting a mandate form their members. 

#BusStrike so the media briefing is delayed…. unions are still waiting on a mandate……

— silindelo masikane (@Slindelo_M) May 11, 2018

Employers are now offering 9 percent for the first year, and 8 percent for the second year.

It’s been three weeks since bus drivers nationwide stopped working, demanding better pay.

READ: End to bus strike possibly in sight

The Golden Arrow Bus Services company has spoken out against what it says are unions’ attempt to force pay increases beyond the point of stability of the company.

CEO Francois Meyer said in a statement that Golden Arrow could not continue its practice of paying up to 59 percent more than the minimum rates agreed to with unions.

The secretary-general of the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council, Gary Wilson, has said he’s frustrated at the continuing nationwide bus strike.

eNCA