Workers ‘trash’ town; motorists urged to be wary
“They have stopped worrying about doing their jobs for the good of Newcastle. They are just worried about their pockets.”
Municipal workers demanding salary adjustments have again taken to the streets, up-ending rubbish skips and dustbins.
A resident followed the progress of approximately 12 alleged municipal employees as they took to the streets of the CBD, scattering rubbish from bins around town. The resident documented this by taking pictures with her cell phone.
Starting in Industria Street, the vandals made their way to Hardwick street, crossing into York Street. They then made their way down Harding Street, through the shopping complex into Allen Street. According to the resident, the protestors turned over rubbish bins and scattered garbage as they went.
The resident was shaken and angry after she nearly collided with one of the men as he ran across Hardwick Street, emptying rubbish bags.
“My 4-year-old daughter was in the car with me. Their actions were dangerous,” said the resident. “They have stopped worrying about doing their jobs for the good of Newcastle. They are just worried about their pockets.”
Blue garbage skips were thrown out and left in the streets, disrupting traffic and creating dangerous obstacles for motorists.
According to the resident, other motorists had to brake to avoid hitting the man as he crossed Hardwick street.
Information received from Mayor, Afzul Rehman, confirmed SAPS action was imminent.
SA Community Crime Watch also sent out a BBM broadcast message, indicating the protest action had evolved to stones being thrown at passing vehicles in the CBD.
A local businessman also telephoned the Advertiser, saying he had attempted to contact Coummunity Services and the Municipal Managers’ office, to no avail.
“We are the people who pay for the service of refuse removal, and now we are being affected by the grievance that these workers have with the municipality,” said the concerned businessman. “We are simply trying to conduct business and pay the bills.”
Motorists have been urged to take care driving through the CBD, as it would take some time to clear up the obstacles created by the ongoing protests.
