Refuse collection in Middelburg has been suspended until further notice following an unprotected strike by some Steve Tshwete Local Municipality employees.
In a public notice issued by the municipality this afternoon, Municipal Manager Mandla Mnguni explained that even though the strike is limited to the Solid Waste Department, all municipal services will be affected.
Earlier, striking employees stormed municipal buildings, ordering employees to stop working and vacate the building.
To help address refuse collection backlogs, a private contractor with two compactor trucks was appointed on June 24 after the municipality’s fleet proved insufficient to service all areas.
The municipality alleged that striking employees closed the main gate at the Magasyn Service Centre earlier today, preventing access to the depot.
It further claimed employees demanded the withdrawal of the contracted trucks before embarking on the strike.
Mnguni said they are engaging with employees and following the necessary legal processes in an effort to resolve the dispute.
Residents have been asked to remain patient until services can be restored.
