The impact of the national public service strike is felt throughout the country with devastating consequences on service delivery. NUPSAW indicated prior to the current strike that; the strike will indeed be massive and bring the government to its knees but, the government did not take our warning seriously and continued to ignore our demands even when we availed ourselves so that they can engage us at any time.
Last week national marches proved to the government that we are not backing down nor are we prepared to accept any offer less favourable to our members. It is unfortunate that as a result of governments lack of cooperation, some hospitals, schools, and government department had to shut-down, while this could have been prevented by the government.
The unions have resolved to intensify the strike as its entering its third-week with the total shut-down this Thursday. Other unions have also served government with notices indicating their intention to join the on-going strike.
Over the weekend the president issued a mandate to the ministers to go back to the negotiating table. And, today the Minister of DPSA requested a meeting with the unions at the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC) at 6 pm. This morning the Independent Labour Caucus convened a meeting to discuss last weeks strike events and their position in today’s meeting with the minister.
NUPSAW, advise the government that we are only prepared to accept a counteroffer that meets the demands as tabled.
For inquiries please contact:
Communications and Media Liaison Officer
Nomthandazo Mahlangu 078-221-5626
Issued by: NUPSAW, 814 Church Street, Eastwood 0083