FEDUSA Stands by Striking SASSA Workers

Media Release

11 June 2018

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) fully supports the right of SASSA (South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) workers within the Public Servants Association (PSA) – an affiliate of the union federation that represents the majority of SASSA employees – to embark on an industrial action as from today to demand decent wages and better working conditions

SASSA workers decided to go on strike after wage talks with agency reached a deadlock. In February 2018 the PSA tabled a wage increase demand on behalf of SASSA workers but SASSA failed to table any offer in response. In terms of the Constitution of the SASSA National Bargaining Forum (SNBF), if parties do not conclude a collective agreement within 30 days of the matter being tabled, any party may declare a dispute.

FEDUSA welcomes the meeting with Social Development Minister Susan Shabangu today to discuss the possible solution to the dispute.

SASSA’s failure to respond to workers demand left the PSA with no option but to approach the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration. Conciliation for a certificate of non-resolution which was duly issued on 23 April 2018. An extensive balloting by the PSA resulted mandated its members to continue with the industrial action.

The FEDUSA hopes common sense will prevail and the parties can return to the negotiating table as soon as possible.

Ends

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FEDUSA is the largest politically non-aligned trade union federation in South Africa and represents a diverse membership from a variety of sectors in industry.  See www.fedusa.org.za for more information.

 

Dennis George

FEDUSA General Secretary

084 805 1529

 

Reuben Maleka

PSA Assistant General Manager

082 903 6808

 

Issued by:

Frank Nxumalo

FEDUSA Media Officer

072 637 8096