FEDUSA

Freedom Day celebrations on 27^th April are an annual reminder of South Africa’s first non-racial democratic elections. “Pre-1994 the majority of South Africans were excluded from voting and therefore denied a political voice. Freedom Day symbolises South Africa’s liberation from a white minority rule that not only disenfranchised people of colour but politically and economically oppressed non-white South Africans,” commented FEDUSA General Secretary, Dennis George

“While South Africans no longer find themselves in a situation in which political power is only enjoyed and exercised by a white minority, many of our people remained trapped in the unrelenting grip of economic inequality and widespread poverty. Many of our people find it extremely difficult to celebrate Freedom Month because they are still trapped in deep poverty and more than 4 million people are unemployed,” said George. FEDUSA questions whether a person can truly exercise their rights and freedoms amidst poverty, mass unemployment and prevalent crime. “Freedom means emancipation from poverty, unemployment, racism, sexism and other forms of discrimination, Freedom Day represents the goal of a better life for all,” stressed George.

Continue reading FEDUSA CELEBRATES FREEDOM DAY

The Federation of South African Unions (FEDUSA) is deeply perturbed by the decision taken by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr B Nzimande, and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to place the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) under administration as of 21 April 2011.

This latest action comes on the back of the decision by the person appointed by the Minister as Chairperson of the Council of the Services SETA, Dr Moon, to suspend the Services SETA CEO, the validity of which is currently being decided in the Labour Court, together with the validity of the appointment by the Minister of Dr Moon. Equally shocking, therefore, is the appointment of Dr Moon by the Minister as the administrator of the Services SETA.  At its Management Committee meeting held last week Thursday, 14 April 2011, FEDUSA raised and tabulated serious concerns regarding the processes by which the Minister and DHET appointed members to the Services SETA Council as well as approving a new Services SETA constitution.  Those issues, too, are pending before the Labour Court.

Continue reading FEDUSA SHOCKED AT DECISION TO PLACE SERVICES SETA UNDER ADMINISTRATION

Godfrey Selematsela (FEDUSA MANCOM), Ashley Benjamin (FEDUSA Vice President), Danie Carstens (FEDUSA President), Koos Bezuidenhout (FEDUSA Deputy President), Dana de Villiers (FEDUSA Vice President)

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) supports the South African Government’s recommitment to create 5 million decent jobs by the year 2020. President Jacob Zuma restated Government’s priority to simultaneously increase our country’s productive capacity and economic growth.

This meeting between Government and Organised Labour focused on unpacking the strategies that would prioritise job growth under the important sectors of infrastructure, agriculture, mining and manufacturing. Organised Labour and Government are in agreement that South Africa’s new growth path must take a ‘phased in’ approach. “In order to increase economic trade and growth, Government, Business and Organised Labour will need to actively develop and implement policies that stimulate employment and provide increased social security,” said FEDUSA Deputy General Secretary, Krister Janse van Rensburg. FEDUSA further welcomed the Minister of Finances reassurance that any amendments or changes to workers’ retirement funds would need to be passed though the NEDLAC structures, “it is important for workers to know that their savings are safe” said Janse van Rensburg.

President Jacob Zuma emphasised the critical role that the Social Partners must play in supporting our developmental state’s new growth path objectives. FEDUSA was also pleased that the creation of ‘green jobs’ as well as increased regional development is currently on the Presidency’s agenda.

Continue reading FEDUSA PLEASED WITH LABOUR SUMMIT PROMISES

The Federation of South African Unions (FEDUSA) supports the Swaziland labour movement’s call for democracy. As anti-government protests enter their second day, FEDUSA calls for democratic change in our neighbouring state.

FEDUSA is appalled that unprovoked police are allowed to use tear gas and water cannons on protesters. “Many trade union members and their leadership are amongst the growing number of people being detained for simply exercising their democratic rights,” said FEDUSA General Secretary Dennis George.

“Leaders cannot simply repress people when their leadership skills are questioned,” continued George, “FEDUSA does not accept this type of tyrannical behaviour and calls for King Mswati and his political elite to step down and allow Swaziland to follow a multi-party democracy.”

The ruling elite has become increasingly rich at the expense of the people of Swaziland. FEDUSA believes that these rotten apples need to be removed and replaced with a transitional government who can give guide and implement the drawing up of a draft constitution and scheduling of new election dates. “Swaziland must be aided in bringing about the end of this monarch’s absolute power,” concluded George.