No emergencies – EMRS on a go-slow

EMRS workers held what was supposed to be a ‘demonstration’ outside the department building last Friday, demanding that their employer respond to their grievances.
Workers want the Occupation Dispensation Salaries to remain the same, and be the same as for all workers.
The danger allowance pay, which the employer is supposed to have been paying from 2007, has not been paid – only 2013’s pay has been paid out. Lastly is the issue of working hours – employees demand 160 hours per month, and anything above that should be considered overtime and be paid accordingly.
Negotiations with District Manager Mr LM Mbatha ended without a resolution. Mr Dlamini explained to the workers that their employer said ‘I owe the workers nothing’.
The next step to be taken by the workers and their representatives is to send their grievances to the arbitrator.
EMRS workers continue to work normal hours, but they will not work overtime until all unions sign the draft agreement on September 23. Mr Dlamini told the gathered crowd that he does not have an explanation as to why the draft has not been signed.
He said hopes that these issues will be sorted out before the busy festive season.