ANC STATEMENT ON THE NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE

5 NOVEMBER 2014

The 2014 General Elections Manifesto of the African National Congress committed the ANC government to investigating the modalities for the introduction of a national minimum wage. This commitment was made in the interest of reducing South Africa's massive income inequality and to ensure a living wage for all workers.

It was further in line with our belief that the most effective weapon in the fight against poverty is an overarching economic policy that creates decent work and sustainable livelihoods. The African National Congress remains committed to addressing the conditions of the working class, poor and workers in general. Decisions such as these are a demonstration of the decisive and radical action the African National Congress is committed to in order to break the back of poverty in our country.

The African National Congress appreciates and applauds the resolve being demonstrated by government to deliver on the commitment to investigate the modalities to implement the National Minimum Wage. We welcome the establishment of a dedicated committee led by the Deputy President, Comrade Cyril Ramaphosa, and urge all stakeholders to fully participate in the process to ensure that the deadline of July 2015 for a report on this very important imperative is met.

Statement issued by Zizi Kodwa, ANC national spokesperson, November 5 2014

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