This was after the collapse of the negotiation processes between the employees who are members of the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA) and the employer. The conciliation meeting, which was facilitated by the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), failed to resolve the salary dispute between the employees and the SANParks.
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“After assessment of all national parks, we found that there are pockets of areas where staff members either did not report for work or reported and then left as a result of the envisaged strike. We have contingency plans in place for all parks to be able to serve our visitors. We do, however, encourage those who wish to make reservations, to do so via the Internet at www.sanparks.org for a speedier service”, says, SANParks Head of Communications, Janine Raftopoulos.
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The South African Police Services (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and volunteers from the Working for Water, have been posted at entrance gates to ensure safe passage to all those entering the parks.
HOSPERSA is demanding a 9% increase for their members, while SANParks is offering 6.01% salary adjustment and a 1% pay progression with a total offer of 7%. Though the strike is protected, the “no work no pay” rule will apply to those who take part in the industrial action.