Union workers go unpaid in civil suit funds freeze

WORKERS for a trade union in the Eastern Cape have not been paid their September salaries as the union’s cash has been frozen in a civil suit over an unprotected strike.

The South African Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (Satawu), which is supposed to fight for workers’ rights, found its accounts attached after workers at Algoa Bus Company embarked on an unprocedural strike in 2012, costing the company thousands of rands.

In an October 2 letter, seen by the Dispatch, Satawu national deputy general secretary Zacharia Mosothoane tried to address the non-payment issue.

“We regret and/or are saddened [sic] to info [sic] you that the salaries date/ payment will be delayed, as we are having some difficulties with our accounts,” he stated.

Mosothoane further advised the workers to make arrangements with their banks so they would not be charged interest on their accounts.

Satawu national spokeswoman Zanele Sabela said the union, together with other unions, embarked on a strike in 2012 that was not protected in terms of labour relations legislation.

“In response to the strike, Algoa Bus sued all the unions for loss of income.

“Since then we have been in and out of court and had countless engagements to no avail. In fact, the most recent meeting took place this Monday in Port Elizabeth,” she said.

Some of the workers who spoke to the Daily Dispatch, on condition of anonymity for fear of victimisation, said they were now struggling to make ends meet and had since stopped going to work.

One employee said it was difficult to service members when they had disputes.

“We want the members to know why they are not being serviced.”

Sabela said: “Salaries will be paid as soon as the attachment on the account is lifted.

“We are seeking legal advice on the matter and continue to engage with Algoa Bus Company. As it is, we are awaiting a response to discussions from [last] Monday’s meeting.”

Algoa Bus human resources manager Klaus Heimes confirmed filing a damages claim in the labour court.

“The union has been invited to propose settlement terms to the company for consideration,” he said. Labour federation Cosatu’s provincial secretary Xolani Malamlela said it was frustrating when one of their affiliated unions was seen to be violating workers’ rights.

“We heard about this for the first time during the meeting [last Thursday] and it is shocking.

“Unions are supposed to look after workers’ rights. When they don’t pay them it’s a bit problematic, hence it must be dealt with urgently,” he said, adding he had communicated with Cosatu national leadership asking for their intervention. —