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JOHANNESBURG – Cosatu and Saftu are calling on members to stay away from work rather than take to the streets to avoid contracting COVID-19.
The National Day of Action is the result of a lack of promise, protection and respect.
Public sector workers say their employer, the government, has neglected and betrayed them by failing to comply with the 2018 wage deal.
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Under the agreement, public servants were supposed to receive their pay raises in April this year, but nothing so far.
Safety in the workplace is a major concern for public sector employees.
Master Masego Fisher said that the government has failed public servants.
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“That is a clear demonstration that our employer does not care about us.
It is a sign of disrespect and appreciation for hard-working teachers, even during this time of pain and anxiety caused by this pandemic, “Fisher said.
Sithembile Khumalo works at the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Johannesburg.
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“We have a problem with the OHCS and security,” Khumalo said.
“In addition to the health protection of the other health protocols, we are concerned, as you can see from the news, we see too many cases of rape, especially here in Gauteng.
“Secondly, the reason why I will join the strike is because of resolution one of 2018, which the government is fighting now.”
Cynthia Msomi, another Charlotte Maxeke Hospital employee, said, “We are essential workers, I believe that we can demand our rights and that the government has to pay us our money.”
