MUST READ: EFF joins wage strike
The Northcliff Square Pick n Pay and surrounding shops have closed this morning after a planned strike has ‘gone beyond its legality’.
Pick n Pay and surrounding shops in the Northcliff Square were forced to close due a planned wage increase strike turned illegal , authorities have confirmed.
They have now, however, been joined by members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), with reports of blocked entrances and businesses having to close.
Ward Councillor Pat Brugman-Richards said the EFF joined the striking employees this morning. “They are blocking the entrance and intimidating everyone who goes there,” Brugman-Richards said. She pointed out that the employees obtained a court interdict not to strike closer than 30 metres from the store’s entrance.
“I understand that the employees are still obeying this interdict.”
Police spokesperson Captain Alex Vermaak, however, confirmed that there has been a breach of the court order and said cases of contempt of court have been opened.
“No arrests have been made, but police are present,” he said.
The EFF’s Joburg regional secretary, Khethokuhle Mabona, confirmed that EFF members were participating in the strike.
“It is clear within our manifesto that we are on workers’ side. People must get [paid to afford] a decent living. We have joined them in support and will continue to do so until their demands are met,” he said.
The Pick n Pay manager referred Northcliff Melville Times to Pick n Pay’s head office for comment. Comment is awaited.
It appears that the strike is ongoing.
