Union members' misconduct: DA requests meeting with SALGA to discuss shared concerns

The support shown by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) for efforts to curb the misconduct of union members who damage property and break the law when on strike should be welcomed.

In a presentation to the Select Committee on Labour and Public Enterprise, SALGA called on Parliament to amend the Labour Relations Act so that unions could be held accountable for their members' actions, even during legal strikes. This is a strong endorsement of the Private Member's Bill I submitted to Parliament in October 2010, which seeks to achieve precisely this outcome. 

I will today be writing to the CEO of SALGA, Xolile George, to request a meeting so that the DA and SALGA can discuss our shared commitment to this issue, and find ways that we can work together to ensure that the necessary amendments are made to the Labour Relations Act.

The DA fully recognises the right of workers to strike. However, it is essential that steps are taken to address the intimidation of non-striking workers, looting and violence that all too often accompanies pickets and marches.

The DA's Private Member's Proposal is currently being processed through the necessary parliamentary channels. It has been referred to a joint sitting of the Committee on Private Members' Legislative Proposals and Special Petitions and the Labour Portfolio Committee, which will take place in the near future.

SALGA's decision to petition Parliament is an important step towards unions being held accountable for their members' actions. The DA will continue to use all available channels to ensure that a decision is taken on our legislative proposal as soon as possible. 

Statement issued by Ian Ollis MP, DA Shadow Minister of Labour, November 3 2011

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