Press Statement dated 18 July 2018
Negotiations in the SASSA National Bargaining Forum resumed on 11 July 2018, following the Labour Court Order in favour of the PSA in a case brought by the Minister of Social Development, Ms Susan Shabangu, to stop strike action by South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) employees.
Negotiations proceeded on 16 and 17 July 2018 where the employer failed to table any counter offer to the PSA’s demands. It, instead, advised the PSA that the Minister of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) instructed SASSA to implement PSCBC Resolution 1/2018. According to the employer, the DPSA informed SASSA that negotiations at the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC) have been concluded and that SASSA should only negotiate matters that are not part of PSCBC Resolution 1/2018.
The PSA reminded the employer of the Court Order that was made after the determination. The PSA stated that based on the response by the employer, it clearly is not willing to negotiate on the issues contained in the Court Order and that in the PSA’s view, the employer is in contempt of court.
The PSA also reiterated its demands and afforded the employer an opportunity to table a counter offer, failing which, the PSA will have no other option than to institute contempt of court proceedings. The employer, however, indicated that its position will not change.
“The PSA consulted with its legal team and it was decided to proceed with an urgent contempt of court application against the Minister of Social Development. The PSA has approached the Labour Court for a date for the matter to be heard as soon as possible,” said PSA Deputy General Manager, Tahir Maepa.
Issued by Tahir Maepa, Deputy General Manager, Public Servants Association (PSA)