LENGTHY queues at Department of Labour’s Richards Bay centre are now a thing of the past.
On Thursday, Labour Deputy Minister iNkosi Phathekile Holomisa launched new self-help kiosks, allowing Zululanders to apply for their unemployment benefits, search for employment opportunities and apply for the Compensation Fund at the click of a button.
Speaking to hundreds of community members on the city municipal grounds, Holomisa announced this free online facility is one of many to be rolled out in the future to improve public service delivery by transforming labour centres into ‘citizen-orientated organisations’.
‘Too many South Africans are struggling to access opportunities to better themselves and develop their skills,’ said Holomisa.
‘These kiosks will help link them to potential employers and place them in jobs.
‘Essentially, it will also contribute to enhancing social cohesion, improving our moral fibre and eradicating poverty – all fundamental goals for our nation.
‘I am confident this service will make a significant impact on helping South Africans rise to a better future.’
City of uMhlathuze Mayor, Elphas Mbatha said the municipality will make a concerted effort in collaboration with the labour department to address unemployment in the region.
‘We must work towards the vision of the late Mandela and our other fallen fathers to obtain stability and fight poverty,’ said Mbatha.
Mayor condemns violence
Referring to the three teenagers fatally stabbed at Pelican Island last Saturday, Mbatha also expressed his distress about the tragic murders.
‘While we commemorate 16 Days of Activism to stand up against violence, the brutal killings of these teenagers is shocking.
‘We must condemn these acts and ensure our children are safe in school and at beaches as well.’
