We all have our own New Year’s resolutions, but as we enter 2019 there are some noteworthy changes in legislation that might just have an impact on how you approach the next calendar year.
If one of your new year’s plans was to start a family of your own, the enactment of the Labour Laws Amendment Act 10 of 2018 (“the Act”) has made it possible for new fathers to take 10 consecutive days paid paternity leave upon the arrival of the newest addition to the family.
Not only do the new dads get to spend some quality time at home and give mom some much-needed help and support, the Act further makes provision for parental adoption leave of 10 consecutive weeks or 10 consecutive days for parents who have adopted a child of two years and younger.
It also provides for four consecutive months’ maternity leave for a mother who loses her child in the third trimester, or whose child is stillborn.
The National Minimum Wage Act 9 of 2018, which was enacted on November 27, 2018, strives to advance economic development and social justice by setting a ground floor wage for the South African labour force.
A minimum wage per hour has been set for all workers in South Africa, but is not applicable to the South African National Defence Force, the National Intelligence Agency and the South African Secret Service.
This will not completely eradicate wage inequality in the country, but will make a significant impact on the lives of low-income households as it will have an influence on over six million workers who have currently been earning below this threshold.
A trend has emerged in the newest legislative developments in South Africa – family, support and community.
At Malherbe Rigg and Ranwell Attorneys (MRR), we have a few New Year’s resolutions of our own.
As this is our 125th year as part of the Boksburg community, we have made it our mission to support our fellow community members by getting involved in projects that will not only serve to uplift the greater Boksburg area, but the individual families who call it home.
MRR was involved in the restoration of the Boksburg North Police Station and provided stationery, furniture and other amenities, vastly improving the working environment of the brave men and women who work there to ensure they not only work and care for their own families, but to also keep yours safe.
As always, a new year brings with it new troubles, adversities and challenges, but, in turn, they provide assistance, opportunity and solutions.
May the aforementioned legislative developments provide you with the latter in this new year.
For any questions or queries contact MRR on 011 918 4116 or visit our website at www.mrr.co.za
