Saccawu press release on Dis-Chem Phamacies dispute 25-07-08

 

SACCAWU press release concerning the Dis-Chem Pharmacies dispute

Retail workers’ union SACCAWU is in dispute with Dis-Chem pharmacies concerning refusal to grant the union organizational rights accorded in terms of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 as amended.

The union began engaging the Company since December 2007 when it had recruited members in 14 branches including Warehouse, the pharmacy refused to meet with the union without giving reasons. The union had no option but to refer the dispute to CCMA.

In February 2008 the matter was scheduled for conciliation and the company still refused to grant the union organizational rights as envisaged in the Act. A certificate of non resolve dispute was issued.

Today the union has recruited 1 200 workers in 30 branches out of 34 branches country wide and the number is growing but still the company does not want to recognize the union.

This is the company priding itself for treating its employee fairly and intends to list on the JSE but, to the contrary, workers feel the company is denying them freedom of association, exploiting them including discriminating when coming to occupation of senior positions.

The Arbitration process has been extended until Tuesday the 29 July 2008 to give parties an opportunity to reach consensus on this matter.

Workers are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this crucial meeting and have resolved to engage on industrial action if the company is still adamant and refusing to grant the union organizational rights.

Mduduzi Mbongwe

SACCAWU Deputy General Secretary

011 403 8333