Union threatens consequences over healthcare demands

Gauteng-based healthcare workers, represented by two trade unions, the Health and Allied Workers Indaba Trade Union (HAITU) and the Independent Liberation and Allied Workers Union (ILAWU), have been protesting the termination of more than 8000 contract workers who lost their jobs this month. The workers, including agency nurses, pharmacy staff, cleaners, porters, security workers, and others, are crucial to quality service delivery in hospitals and communities as reported by IOL.

The unions are demanding the permanent employment of all contract and agency workers whose contracts were abruptly ended in February 2023, the absorption of Expanded Public Works Programme workers, and compliance with a circular to absorb community service nurses and interns without fail, amongst other demands.

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The unions have met with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to discuss the issue and have permitted him to engage any stakeholders interested in the matter. However, they have also threatened to continue protesting and unleashing misery on the Gauteng provincial government until their demands are met. HAITU spokesperson Lerato Mthunzi has criticized the Gauteng Department of Health for exploiting contract workers and failing to create jobs as promised by the Premier in the State of the Province Address.

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Photo: Facebook / @Panyaza Lesufi