The National Union of Mineworkers has condemned De Beers' decision to suspend production at Venetia Mine for two years. The company has also started Section 189A retrenchment proceedings, placing 1,214 workers at risk of job losses. NUM says the move is a severe blow to employees, families and surrounding communities and that the company should have consulted workers earlier. We're now joined on the line by NUM National Health and Safety Secretary and Diamonds Sector Chief Negotiator, Masibulele Naki