Court interdict against Nehawu strike
Police can expel strikers from buildings after several hospitals in the province suffered complete shutdowns.
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) was served with a court interdict on Wednesday evening, March 8, at the Johannesburg Labour Court, according to the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH).
The department obtained the interdict to stop striking Nehawu members from obstructing the rendering of health services to patients.
This comes after Nehawu planned to go on strike from Monday, March 6, after serving notice on February 24.
The department sought relief from the courts given the strike’s dire impact on various facilities where the lives of both patients and staff were under threat.
Kopanong, Sebokeng, Thelle Mogoerane and Bheki Mlangeni hospitals all experienced a total shutdown.
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg and Chris Hani Baragwanath academic hospitals were also hit.
The SAPS were instructed to take all necessary steps to effect the interdict, according to the department.
This included the removal of any individuals who obstruct the provision of services from GDoH buildings and premises.
The interdict will remain in effect pending the court date of April 20.
Health minister Dr Joe Phaahla, together with Gauteng health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, will continue with site visits to health facilities affected by the Nehawu strike in the province.
The minister will use the opportunity to announce various measures taken by the national department to support districts and health facilities hit by the strike and interact with healthcare workers and patients.
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