IMATU MEETS WITH MINISTER LINDIWE SISULU
The Executive Committee of the Independent Municipal and Allied Trade Union (IMATU) met with the Minister of Public Service and Administration, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu and the Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, Ms Ayanda Dlodlo yesterday afternoon.
“The chief purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Draft Public Administration Management Bill. This draft Bill is aimed at creating uniformity between employees in National, Provincial and Local Government,” explained IMATU Deputy General Secretary, Craig Adams.
During discussions, the parties identified areas of agreement as well as possible areas of difference. IMATU highlighted concerns that the provisions regulating collective bargaining and other provisions which impact on the rights of employees may be unconstitutional and therefore open to legal challenges. The Ministry welcomed IMATU’s inputs and gave the assurance that the comments will be given serious consideration.
“As the union representing employees in the local government sector, IMATU must ensure that our members’ interests are represented and their rights protected. We had a very constructive meeting with the Minister, Deputy Minister and their team of experts. IMATU welcomes the chance to engage with the Ministry of Public Service and Administration and believe that the groundwork has been laid for further fruitful engagements,” stated Adams.
IMATU will be submitting its comments on the Public Administration Management Draft Bill to the Department of Public Service and Administration by the end of this month.
“We look forward to working together with the Minister and her team going forward, to ensure a sustainable and efficient local government for all South Africans,” concluded Adams.