The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health is regrettably experiencing ongoing disruptions to normal operations at some of its health facilities as a result of a strike, reportedly by members of the National Health and Allied Workers Union (NEHAWU).
This industrial action, which began on March 6, has resulted in the blockage of access to various hospitals by certain individuals, which has hindered access to several facilities; as well as work stoppages, following the intimidation and removal of staff from their posts, as well as the burning of tyres.
Emergency Medical Services in and around eThekwini, and at King Cetshwayo, have reported serious challenges with moving around and transporting patients to and from healthcare facilities.
The Department wishes to remind all of its employees that as healthcare professionals, they are classified as essential services, which means they are legally prohibited from embarking on industrial action. Contravention of this law could have dire circumstances on all involved individuals.
Furthermore, those who took part in the illegal strike are reminded that the principle of “no work, no pay” will apply.
The Department wishes to caution all members of the public as well as leaders and members of organised labour against breaking the law, and the blocking of access routes and entrances to clinics and hospitals and all our institutions, as this could result in unnecessary and avoidable loss of lives and inconvenience to the different members of society.
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