Ladysmith KZN: uThukela employees demand better working conditions
They claim that many of their colleagues have become infected with the coronavirus, while others have died
Employees of uThukela District Municipality staged a protest this morning (July 1), against what may be termed as “lack of care about workers’ lives by the employer” in times of Adjusted Level 4 Covid-19 regulations. Union representatives from both SAMWU and IMATU are demanding better working conditions, as they claim that many of their colleagues have become infected with the coronavirus (Covid-19), while others have died.
The unions say that since the outbreak of the pandemic, they have filed multiple complaints with the employer, alleging a wide range of health and safety violations at the workplace. This includes the fact that there is a lack of adequate personal protection for employees and a lack of social distancing in the offices (as some are compressed in a small office, sharing with over two people). They also allege that even the municipal vehicles are not safe, as people are crammed inside without observing the regulations.
Also read: Temporary shutdown of Municipal Rates Office
The shop stewards feel it is high time that the employer co-ordinates efforts to create decent working conditions for all, as the foundation of a “green, inclusive and resilient recovery”. After addressing the workers, both unions headed to attend a special meeting with management to try and resolve the impasse.
They are also seeking to resolve a myriad of other issues. The shop stewards are expected to report back to the workers tomorrow morning.
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