Ster and Vaalweekblad received this media statement yesterday from Mr Stabley Gaba, Manager: Communications in the Emfuleni Local Municipality:
The municipality has noted with concern the temporary suspension of fire services. We have been inundated with calls from residents following reports in the media that our fire-fighters were not available to assist during emergencies.
Due to an alleged labour dispute, our fire services have been suspended until further notice.
Management of the Fire Department and municipal officials are currently engaging with affected workers to find lasting solutions to this impasse.
Therefore, we advise all residents that the municipality is receiving assistance from the fire department of the Midvaal Local Municipality and Arcelor Mittal in case of emergencies and disasters in the interim.
While it is understood that the affected emergency workers are recognized as an essential service, we are pleading for patience during this disruption of services.
The municipality learned of alleged grievances from employees of the fire department in the media, supposedly about unpaid monies.
Officials have since launched an investigation to determine what the challenges are in this matter and find ways of resuming the fire services as soon as possible.
