Cosatu backs Samwu bus strike 22 -02-07

 

PEC Gauteng and SAMWU bus strike

The Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) of Gauteng Province of the Congress of South African Trades Unions had its first meeting of the year this week (21 Feb-22 Feb 2007). Among the many issues discussed the PEC noted with concern the issue of the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) Metrobus strike in Johannesburg.

The strike, which is now in its fourth week, has been incited by disputes over accumulated sick-leave pay, union bashing and the victimisation of union workers by the management of Metrobus.

The PEC welcomes the initiative to resolve the dispute by the Johannesburg Mayor, Amos Masondo, and the City Manager, Mavela Dlamini, through the mediation services of Tukiso Dispute Resolution. The PEC hopes that the process will not drag on for too long as it started yesterday.

The PEC resolved that all COSATU members in Gauteng would support SAMWU members by coordinating a programme of solidarity. They also called for an immediate reinstatement of all dismissed workers.

The PEC also resolved to support 300 striking workers at the Tembisa Ward-based Waste Refuse Management Company. The PEC is calling for their immediate reintegration into the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Council. They are doing the same job as refuse collectors in every municipality and see no reason why they suffer inferior, downgraded conditions of employment.

Contact:

COSATU Gauteng Provincial Secretary,Siphiwe Mgcina, on 011 873 2610 or 082 465 8336