Gauteng EMS provincial government paramedics shut down services

The Midrand Reporter caught up with the striking paramedics at the Midrand offices who explained that they are tired of being “grossly exploited by management”. The paramedics said they have not been treated well by current management, are not paid for overlapping hours and salaries differ, yet they have the same qualifications. They explained that for the past five years their concerns have not been taken seriously. One of the paramedics Higgins Mogakane said, “We can not continue working overlapping hours and not being paid for it. Other paramedics in other provinces have been back paid for their overlapping hours.”

The paramedics said in September that a meeting was held with management. A resolution was taken that control or communication staff that were not considered for a certain salary grade should be upgraded, elevated or promoted. All personnel working more than 160 overlapping hours per month will be paid for the extra hours worked.

“We work in appalling conditions and dilapidated buildings. We need a safer working space with sufficient inspection lights, especially for night duty,” they said.

They added they do not get much training while on the job or certificates to show training attendance.

Gauteng EMS provincial head of communications Prince Hamnca said, “The Gauteng Department of Health views interruption of services on a serious note and does not condone actions that endanger people’s lives.”

“On 13 October, EMS management met with employees in the Tshwane area who are involved in a go-slow. The Midrand employees were engaged on 14 October.”

He explained, “…the department will investigate some of the issues raised in the meeting and while that is happening, employees are expected to resume duties and functions as normal. ….Once the process is compete, the department will revert back to the employees with findings and recommendations.”