Cosatu gave notice to Nedlac of their intention to embark on protest action on Wednesday, 27 September 2017. The main thrust of this action relates to so-called state capture.

In a recent press statement, Cosatu put it as follows:

“What prompted this action were the revelations by the Public Protector that the current South African Administration has been captured and that there is a network of the predatory elite that is engaged in looting of state resources and corrupt activities.”

and

“COSATU will be making a series of demands during this upcoming strike and central to that will be implementation of the Public Protector’s recommendation regarding a Judicial Commission of Inquiry.”

What should employers do?

This protest action will be in compliance with the Labour Relations Act. As a consequence employees covered by the Act and who participate in the protest action or conduct in anticipation or furtherance of the protest action, will be protected against dismissal.  This means that no disciplinary action should be taken against employees ( other than those who are engaged in  essential service or maintenance services), who do not report for work due to their participation in the protest action.  However, the  “No work, no pay” principle should be applied in respect of those who do not work.

For further questions, you can email info@labourwise.co.za