GEORGE NEWS - The municipal labour union Samwu plans to embark on an indefinite strike against George Municipality starting next Wednesday, 24 May.
This is happening against the backdrop of friction over the last week between Samwu and the Gauteng government regarding the outsourcing of municipal services.
The union posted on its Facebook page on Wednesday 17 May that their plan to strike in George follows after the parties reached a deadlock in negotiations through the Local Labour Forum (LLF):
“The negotiations go as far back as 2019/2020 on which some decisions were taken in the LLF, but the employer (George Municipality) dismally failed to implement to date.”
Municipal spokesperson Chantèl Edwards said the municipality is aware of Samwu’s planned strike, and assured all residents that they are addressing the matter to avoid a strike.
“We will endeavour to ensure that all contingency plans are in place to ensure that service delivery continues. We apologise to residents in advance for matters which remain out of our control,” said Edwards.
“Unfortunately, Samwu has consistently evaded all attempts dating back to 13 September 2022 to discuss their alleged issues at legislated monthly Local Labour Forums and other meetings as requested by the employer, as well as removing themselves from a conciliation meeting held on 20 January 2023.
"The employer has resorted to written responses being sent to Samwu on matters raised. George Municipality as the employer remains committed to following due process and engaging in discussion with Samwu to resolve their issues.”
No peace
In the Facebook statement, Samwu’s provincial secretary John Mcanjana calls George Municipality a “Special Project”, saying there will be no labour peace until their demands are met.
Their demands and grievances include the following:
- The demand for third party deductions that are only allowed for IMATU
- The demand for payment of Covid-19 compensation to all employees
- The union bashing of Samwu shop stewards
- Unilateral implementation of restructuring and recruitment and selection policy
- The non-transportation of employees and employer deviating from their transport policy
- The disciplinary processes of the employer that are one-sided
- Investigation into the allegations of fruitless and wasteful expenditure by the MM
- The long outstanding TASK Job Evaluations and appeals
George Municipality remains open on Wednesday 24 May and municipal service delivery/essential services will continue.
Switchboard: 044 801 9111 (07:45 to 16:30)
After hours and emergencies: 044 801 6300
Fire emergencies: 044 801 6311
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