THE Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA) has commenced the process of balloting its members for strike action following its recent wage dispute with the government.
The negotiations between the unions and government deadlocked when they failed to reach an agreement.
A dispute was declared after government’s revised offer of a 1.5% increase was rejected.
Unions want 7% but the government says it cannot afford the workers’ demands.
PSA spokesperson Reuben Maleka said at the weekend that despite the matter being referred for conciliation, an agreement couldn’t be reached.
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) has issued a non-resolution certificate.
“During the conciliation meeting on 3 June 2021, the employer rather than attempting to resolve the differences between the parties, opted to argue that the matter was referred prematurely. The Commissioner eventually issued a certificate to indicate that the dispute remained unresolved,” said Maleka.
“The PSA commenced with the ballot process on 17 June 2021 after adapting the voting process to also include an electronic process owing to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. This process electronic ballot via the Union website will close on 28 June.”
Maleka said the PSA will decide on what form the industrial action will take once the outcome of its balloting process is received.
“The PSA has simultaneously approached the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council to establish the required picketing rules to enable the PSA to serve the employer with adequate notice for a strike,” said Maleka.
“The PSA’s strike methods will, as far as possible, take into consideration the economic impact on its members, the new way of work, and will be considerate of the pandemic. Actions will be adapted to the current environment but will be spear-headed to have the most impact on Government itself.”
- Inside Politics
