FEDUSA

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) supports its affiliated trade union the United Transport and Allied Workers Union (UTATU) in its call to stop any potential split within Transnet.

“While the idea of splitting the rail operations of Transnet is not a new one, the department’s acting deputy director-general for integrated transport planning must take into account the ramifications of this proposal. Splitting Transnet will not solve the actual structural problems within the South African transport sector. Restrained export figures and inefficiency have led to the increased use of road transport, putting additional pressure on the country’s road network , FEDUSA believes that the the Departments of Transport and Public Enterprise should rather work together to plan a joint strategy going forward,” commented FEDUSA General Secretary, Dennis George

Continue reading FEDUSA SAYS NO TO TRANSNET SPLIT

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) attended a Social Partners New Growth Path (NGP) meeting at the New Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) offices in Rosebank today. The major aim of this meeting was to discuss the draft accords regarding local procurement and the green economy.

Representatives from Organised Labour, Organised Business and Community were briefed on the outcomes and objectives of the recent Cabinet Lekgotla, which focussed primarily on job creation and growth and development. The Minister of Finance, Public Enterprises and Economic Development then provided information on the current status quo in terms of the NGP’s Green Economy and local procurement objectives.

FEDUSA is committed to giving preference to the procurement of locally manufactured goods as well as services where possible. “While Organised Labour clearly stated its commitment to local procurement, we need to place our specific commitments and assurances on paper. We will be further analysing our individual procurement policies, supply chain management local business partnerships,” said FEDUSA General Secretary, Dennis George.

Continue reading FEDUSA COMMITTED TO PURCHASE PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) welcomes the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Country Assessment Report on South Africa predicting 4% growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the next financial year.

“FEDUSA believes that the IMF Country Report offers a good assessment of South Africa’s current financial position, however this advice is better poised at financial analysis and not suggestions related to labour market flexibility. This Assessment Report suggests that South African wages are too high or labour legislation is too strict, however the focus should rather be shifted to the very low or non-existent minimum wages of our competitor countries,” commented FEDUSA General Secretary, Dennis George.

The Assessment Report indicates that South Africa’s economic recovery has been slow and uneven, lagging behind the recovery rate of other developing countries. South Africa lost close to 1 million jobs between 2008/9 and FEDUSA notes with concern that employment rates remains 6.5% below pre-crisis levels today.

Continue reading FEDUSA COMMENTS ON IMF COUNTRY ASSESSMENT

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) is deeply saddened by the death and serious injury of a number of primary school children on their way to school this morning, just outside Knysna.

“FEDUSA notes with grave concern that the accident is believed to have been caused by the failure of the vehicle’s brakes. As a result, 14 children and the driver are dead and dozens of other children are injured,” commented FEDUSA General Secretary, Dennis George.

FEDUSA wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the children who have died in this tragedy. “We will be monitoring the findings of this disaster closely. It is imperative to gage the cause of this accident in order to make the necessary changes to prevent any repeat incidents in the future. This is a truly sad day, our thoughts are with the children, families, educators and rescue personal affected by this terrible misfortune,” said George.

FEDUSA believes that there is a need for the State to increase its investment in the creation of additional infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing South African population.

“FEDUSA has previously indicated that there are serious lacks, especially in local government, to adequately maintain the infrastructure inherited from the previous regime. Priority must be given to the maintenance and improvement of our roads and railroads in and around our towns and cities to minimise transport risks,” said George.