Potchefstroom Hospital was turned into a littered mess on Wednesday (6 April) when aggrieved NEHAWU (National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union) members threw trash in the rooms and corridors of the hospital.
This was part of an illegal and unsanctioned protest action due to lack of bonuses and performance rewards. The protest began at around 10:00 as workers emptied rubbish bins to let their voices be heard.
According to acting CEO of Potchefstroom Hospital, Dr. Michael Shakung, there has been a meeting with the union to discuss the grievances and explain measures taken by the hospital.
“Most of the issues were with regards to lack of performance rewards as well as bonusses. Many of the protestors feel that they should get performance rewards for working long hours during the Covid-pandemic. We have a policy where each employee is assessed and moderated to determine a pay progression and bonus. There was also a 0.5% increase across all government employees,” stated Shakung.
“Today we tried our best to control the situation, but it was problematic as there were also municipal strikes that were happening at the same time. We are doing our best to ensure the safety of everyone at Potchefstroom Hospital,” he said.
Shakung also emphasised that there are concerns from employees regarding the hospital’s infrastructure upgrades. “The hospital buildings need to be renovated as well, as there is a current health issue with the asbestos. We cannot rebuild it quickly, as it will take time. Our provincial office is aware of it and is in the process of attending to it,” he maintained.
Another factor for the unhappiness amongst employees is the staff shortages at the hospital. “There is a demand for the extension of some of the staff who were on Covid-19 contracts. We are addressing the process of extensions. We are also meeting with labour unions on a monthly basis,” he reiterated.
Shakung informed the community that patients’ health is still of utmost importance despite the staff shortages and protests creating various difficulties. “There are a lot of challenges and we are doing our best. Our patients must not be compromised.”
