DEAR Editor,-
The IFP demands that KZN MEC of Health Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo must present a detailed strike contingency plan to avert the ongoing strike by forensic pathology services staff in many provincial government mortuaries, which severely affected several families’ plans to bury their loved ones.
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First and foremost, the IFP expresses disappointment and dissatisfaction with the ‘lackadaisical attitude’ in handling issues of mortuary workers.
Now it is high time for MEC Dhlomo to tell the public what plans he has to ensure that autopsies are fast-tracked.
The government’s lackadaisical attitude in delaying resolving workers grievances should be blamed.
The IFP does not tolerate laxity and an indifferent attitude adopted by government towards workers.
A situation where the government only reacts in a knee-jerk manner after a disaster has occurred cannot be allowed.
We are further perplexed by the failure of KZN Premier Willies Mchunu’s intervention in this matter – it is a clear indication that the premier is not concerned about the health of KZN’s citizens.
The challenge facing SA is the government and its elected representatives who are disgraceful and fail society with their utter muteness.
Mortuary workers have informed authorities many times of the issues, but no concrete measures have been taken to solve the problems.
Due to the apathetic attitude of higher authorities, families of the deceased bear the brunt.
The IFP hoped that the ANC-led government will shed its lethargic attitude and concentrate on solving issues facing the Department of Health.
People of KZN who voted in favour of ANC now feel cheated and betrayed because some MECs and ministers are only protecting their own petty interests at the cost of the common masses.
Instead of solving people’s problems, ANC leaders are over-burdened with solving their own internal conflicts and bickering.
This is a matter of life. How long do you want to keep a blind eye and let the matter persist?
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Problems facing the KZN Department of Health have been identified, but it is pathetic that, as in other crucial matters, the ANC government lacks the urgency needed and its listless attitude further aggravates the situation.
The IFP appeals to all parties involved in negotiations aimed at solving workers’ concerns to urgently and cordially find a negotiated settlement.
NCAMISILE NKWANYANA, MPL
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesman on Health
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