JRA workers on 24 February have taken to the streets of Joburg CBD in an alleged illegal South African Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) strike.
Some JRA union members are engaged in illegal strike action. We apologise for delays in road related services, including traffic signals.
— Joburg Roads Agency (@MyJRA) February 23, 2016
The cause of the strike is yet unknown at this stage but JRA spokesperson Bertha Peter-Scheepers said, “We ask for the understanding of the community while we continue engaging with the striking workers.”
JRA employees protest over salaries and management outside the #JRA head office in the Jozi city centre #JRAprotest pic.twitter.com/IYC53E0THa
— Daniel Born (@DanielBorn) February 24, 2016
#JRAProtest in Joburg city centre https://t.co/rYNtsFjXRT
— The Daily Vox (@thedailyvox) February 24, 2016
Superintendent Edna Mamonyane of JMPD confirmed that the strike started in the morning of 23 February when workers gathered at their head office.
“This morning they have moved toward Bree Street and are currently in Braamfontein, we have deployed officers and the Public Order Police are present,” said Supt Mamonyane.
She confirmed that it is an illegal strike but that leaders are encouraging negotiations with JRA and the Union. “It is affecting traffic in the inner city and we are trying to move them away and direct them toward peaceful negotiations before anything gets worse,” added Supt Mamonyane.
“General issues will be delayed such as potholes and traffic lights, however apex projects such as the M1 construction will not be affected,” concluded Bertha Peter-Scheepers.
