Post Office strike strangling NGO sector
24 November 2014
I invite members of the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) sector in the Western Cape WC to come forward about the impact that the Postal Services strike has on their funding. I will take the matter to the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac).
The post office strike contributes to the loss of millions in donations, according to the SA Institute of Fundraising (see here). The strike action over the last three months would mean a Loss of R55 million to Non-Profit Organisations. These organisations deliver essential social services to our communities whilst the Lottery Fund, which is intended for communities, is bogged down by slow processes.
The lost parcels and other pieces of mail which are delayed by the strike is denying income and support to the NGO sector.
Children's organisations like the Cancer Charity, Leprosy Missions, SOS Children' Village SA; are losing around R600 thousand in fundraising.
Girls and Boys Town posted support appeal letters to more than 30 000 donors which have not reached their destinations timeously.
The Salvation Army estimate a loss of R700 thousand hospice and SA mental health will also be affected.
The resignation of the board, after ministerial intervention, indicates that new leadership is needed. There is a shortfall of R400 million and a decline in business as more Post Offices are closing.
NGO's address the real needs of our people, felt on grassroots level. This is why it is important that Government ensures that NGO's receive the necessary infrastructural support. Yet we are rather seeing how strike action is undertaken without consideration for the knock-on effect.
Given our history, it is important to ensure that the rights of workers are protected. However as our democracy grows, we must find a balance between the rights of workers and protecting business. This will provide more investment, jobs as well as safeguard against the knock-on detriment as is currently experienced by NGO's.
Statement issued by Denis Joseph, MPP, DA Deputy Chief Whip, Western Cape Provincial Parliament, November 24 2014
Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter
