Today's Labour News

newsThis news aggregator site highlights South African labour news from a wide range of internet and print sources. Each posting has a synopsis of the source article, together with a link or reference to the original. Postings cover the range of labour related matters from industrial relations to generalist human resources.

Recommended reforms to whistleblower protection open for public comment

Details

newsNews24 reports that Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola has proposed reforms to whistleblowing legislation, which is now open for public comment until 15 August.

Departmental spokesperson Chrispin Phiri explained that they had drawn on established whistleblower protection legislation from various countries for a comprehensive evaluation. The move is in line with the commitment made by President Cyril Ramaphosa to protect corruption busters. Ramaphosa told the state capture commission that whistleblowers were key in the fight against corruption and Phiri said the department shared this view. He indicated: "The (discussion) document covers both whistleblower and witness protection. The study aimed to evaluate the current legislation on protected disclosures and witness protection in South Africa, looking out for any gaps or shortcomings in the system. It is divided into three parts, examining the legal framework, procedures and practices, and resources available to support whistleblowers." Phiri said the department was also reviewing the Protected Disclosures Act and Witness Protection Act to give effect to the commission's recommendations on the protection of whistleblowers. He added the discussion document proposed several protection measures, including establishing a fund to support whistleblowers and expanding the scope of the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) in handling protected disclosures. Furthermore, the document recommended that whistleblowers be offered the necessary legal and emotional assistance to help them navigate the complicated legal system and deal with the emotional challenges that come with it.

  • Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Cebelihle Bhengu at News24
  • Lees ook, Publiek genooi om sê te sê oor fluitjieblaser-wetgewing, by Maroela Media


Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page