THE STRUGGLE OF THE WORKERS CONTINUES
The National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW) joins the working class in South Africa and the world in celebrating the National Workers Day. Together with our affiliate the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) we are celebrating this year’s May Day under the theme “UNITING TO OPPOSE VAT INCREASE AND ANTI-WORKER LAW AMENDMENTS.” This year’s theme is outright important and speaks volume against proposed amendments to labour laws. These changes are a direct assault on the hard-won rights of workers, and we call on all workers, unions, and progressive formations to unite in resistance.
On this important day, we must reflect on the challenges the workers and the country at large are confronted with. Exactly 31 years into democracy, workers continue to be exploited both in public and private sector. The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), Community Health Care workers (CHW) and other contract workers, many of whom have served government with distinction for over ten years till date, have no living wage or benefits. In the Western Cape, the Department of Education has frozen 2407 posts due to austerity measures, while Kwa-Zulu Natal and other provinces are confronted with a similar situation.
Equally, the safety of workers is of utmost importance. Earlier this year, we learned with shock of two nurses who were raped at Ga-Chuene clinic in Limpopo while at work, which is a gross human rights violation and a failure by the state in ensuring the safety of the workers and that of patients. We are also worried about the old dilapidated public service buildings in our country, which pose serious safety risks to the workers and hinder their daily operations.
Public Protector’s report on the investigation into administrative deficiencies related to the processing of gender-based violence (GBV) matters within the South African criminal justice system revealed that Thirty-eight (38) of the courts inspected by the Public Protector are not maintained in an operational manner that supports efficient service delivery as required by law. Courts in Ga-Rankuwa, Bloemfontein, Nelspruit, Piet Retief, Kabokweni, and East London are in a dilapidated state. It is concerning that recently renovated courts such as Palm Ridge and Umbumbulu have structural defects, posing risks to the lives of the workers.
We are increasingly concerned about the state of our health facilities in the country. Workers in various institutions are under pressure due to staff shortages, and we are also worried about their safety. Recently, a fire broke out at Tembisa Hospital, posing a significant risk to both the workers and the patients in institution. This incident further demonstrates that occupational safety measures are not being properly adhered to within these facilities.
The levels of unemployment, poverty and inequality remains glaring impediments to our country success. We reiterate our call for government to address the imbalances of the past and address the land question. It is a shame that 31 years into democracy the working class majority who are black, are living in squalor and languishing in poverty while the minority have access to land and the economy. The continuous use of the labour brokers continues to undermine the livelihood of the workers. It is very clear that the current Government of National Unity (GNU) has no clear plan to create jobs, build infrastructure and grow the economy. Instead, it is continuing with the neo-
liberal policies that have over the years failed the working-class.
Lastly, as we commemorate this important day, let us unite against austerity measures and advocate for better working conditions and higher wages for the workers. As NUPSAW, we remain steadfast in our commitment to put “Workers First.” Our mission is to uplift every member of the working community who has been marginalized, ensuring they receive not only a decent wage but also improved working conditions that dignify their efforts. Together we will champion the rights of workers and create a fairer, more equitable workplace for all.
THE WORKERS FIRST!!!!
~ENDS~
Issued by NUPSAW. For media enquiries contact:
General Secretary Solly Malema on 082 323 2958