TAKE NOTE: Ongoing protest at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital

Some of the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital cleaners, porters and kitchen staff have had enough of being deprived of their performance management and development system money package and had downed tools at the hospital’s reception, causing disruptions for visitors and patients to rather use alternative long routes.

The protesters were addressed by their labour relations department official earlier today, with feedback that this day will count as unpaid leave.

The hospital’s public relations officer, Lungiswa Mvuvu, confirmed there is an ongoing strike but said she did not see it coming. Lesemang Mtuka, director of communication for the Gauteng Department of Health added that there was an unprotected strike which actually began yesterday (18 April).

“We didn’t know anything about the protest because it’s not registered, but we are still waiting to hear from the leaders of the strike what the problem might be. A proper strike should be planned accordingly,” said Mvuvu.

Speaking to one of the protesters who wished to remain anonymous, he alleged that Gauteng is the only province that has still not received their December bonus and they have been told this far that there is no money to pay them.

“We work very hard and we would like everyone in Gauteng who is affected by this to know and join us. If we are not helped soon, we will burn this hospital,” he exclaimed.

The protesters alleged that they were waiting for Gauteng Premier David Makhura to address them with a way forward. The hospital labour relations department and management met with the union leaders at about 4.30pm to address the concerns of the employees.

Mtuka said, “They were upset over the performance-based bonuses, however, this is out of the facilities’ (hospital’s) hands. The names for those receiving bonuses have already been put forward and this includes all hospitals in the Gauteng province.”

He confirmed that it is business as usual at the hospital and apologised for a gate being closed this morning but that he was pleased to know that security officers directed citizens to alternate entrances.

Were you affected by traffic in Parktown during the strike? Let us know on @RK_Gazette.

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