Small protest at Sars-offices in Standerton
Taxpayers were encouraged to avoid going to a Sars office.
A small group of protestors converged at the Sars-offices in Princess Street, Standerton on Wednesday, May 25.
According to a statement of the South African Revenue Service, they have noted that organised labour has opted to embark on an industrial action despite concerted efforts by them to avert the strike.
Sars believes that its offer, to which it has received no response, is the best under the prevailing socio-economic challenges facing the country.
They are also limited by the resources available to it from the funding grant.
Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said he understands and empathises with the financial challenges faced by their employees, as well as all employees countrywide.
“In fact, all South Africans, especially millions who are unemployed, suffer the impact of the current economic climate.
“Sars is a microcosm of the broader society and the sentiment of discontent is understandable, especially when they have a sense that the current situation is unlikely to change in the short term.
“Employees do not willingly withhold their labour because that in itself has a financial impact on them under already tough times.”
Kieswetter also said they recognise the constitutional right of workers to strike and express themselves within the provisions of the law.
“We will take whatever steps necessary to balance the impact of the strike, with our responsibility to discharge the important responsibility of providing important services to taxpayers and collecting all tax revenues due.
“This very revenue pays the salaries of government employees and provides the necessary resources to provide public goods and services.”
According to the statement, the first day of the strike proceeded orderly, without incident, and employees were thanked for exercising their rights, while respecting the rights of others and observing the law.
Developments will be monitored at their branch offices and their website will continually be updated to advise the public on how to engage with Sars to fulfil their required obligations.
Taxpayers were encouraged to avoid going to a Sars office.
Kieswetter concluded by saying the doors of negotiations remain open, and expressed willingness to work with their colleagues in labour to look at ways to improve the overall value proposition to their employees.
