Coghsta employees down tools for better salaries

Employees of the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) and affiliates of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) staged a protest action today (Thursday) at their offices in Polokwane demanding, among others, the payment of outstanding bonuses and filling of vacant posts.
The employees also pleaded with Jerry Ndou, MEC for the department to ensure that the allegedly dilapidated infrastructure is fixed.
A member of Nehawu who spoke on condition of anonymity said they have engaged Ndou and the head of department on several occasions but their efforts were futile.
Union members are saying they will continue with the protest action until their demands are met. “We did not received bonuses for the past three years and we cannot continue like this. Our salaries are not fully paid and we are working in dilapidated offices. It is just not right for a public servant to work in unconducive conditions. We are also baffled by the department’s inability to fill vacant posts. It is a huge concern for us because we are overworked and as a result we are unable to produce quality work.”
At the time of going to press Coghsta Spokesperson, Motupa Selomo was not available for comment.

Story and photo: Herbert Rachuene
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