The National Union of Metalwokers of South Africa (NUMSA) with the backing of other trade unions, progressive movements, youth organisations and NGOs, organised a national strike on Wednesday.
The march which is termed “striking for youth jobs against false solutions”, is Numsa’s reaction to the Employment Tax Incentive Act (ETIA) also known as the youth wage subsidy bill, which was signed into law by President Jacob Zuma and came into effect in January.
Buses and trains were used to transport Kwatsaduza residents who embarked on the strike.
The march, which was protected by the Labour Relations Act, started from Zoo Lake in Johannesburg and proceeded to the offices of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) where a memorandum to employers and government stating Numsa’s demands was handed over.
Regional deputy chairperson of Numsa in Ekurhuleni Vusimuzi Hlatshwayo, says their march is not in opposition to youth employment.
“Our issue is that our children will be employed for two years and not be covered for UIF, workman’s compensation or pension fund, and will earn minimum wage which we view as exploitation.”
Vusimuzi says another concern for them is that ETIA will cause the retrenchments of older workers.
“The salaries which will be earned by the youth won’t be enough to sustain families, once the parents are retrenched,” adds Vusimuzi.
Some of the demands stated in the memorandum include stronger links between colleges (colleges) and industry, a ban on labour brokers and increase the number of apprentices and interns for youth to obtain qualifications.
