SUSPENDED STRIKE- IEC WELCOMES IMATU’s CONDUCT

SAMWU has “suspended” its national strike, originally scheduled for Friday 13 May 2011.

IMATU members are however advised to be vigilant in the run-up period before the municipal elections take place on 18 May 2011.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) briefed trade unions on Tuesday 10 May 2011 on the election process and welcomed IMATU’s decision not to participate in industrial action prior to the municipal elections.

‘We thank IMATU for being considerate, responsible and co-operative in ensuring that people will be able to exercise their democratic rights on 18 May 2011”, said the CEO of the IEC  Dr. Brigalia Bam at the media briefing held at Election House, Centurion on Tuesday.

Dispute conciliated later

The dispute that the Unions declared in terms of wage negotiations is going to be conciliated on 19 May 2011.

IMATU will only be able to participate in industrial action after a certificate of non- resolution of the dispute has been issued and after seven (7) days’ notice has been given (after the issuing of the certificate).

IMATU is advised that SAMWU intends to strike over issues such as the proposed amendments to the Municipal Systems Bill.  IMATU does not share the position of SAMWU on issues such as the proposed amendments to the Municipal Systems Bill.

“Regions are therefore urged to advise all structures that IMATU is not going to participate in this action”, said IMATU’s General Secretary, Johan Koen.