Nurses march to air grievances

The Eastern Cape department of health has promised to respond within seven days to demands by nurses and care workers who, among other things, want the acting district manager removed.

Nurses and care workers from unions affiliated to the SA Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) marched to the department’s district office in Conyngham Road on Thursday.

Health spokesperson Lwandile Sicwetsha said the presence of the nurses had been noted with dismay, as they were not allowed to strike.

Nurses and care workers demanded the permanent employment of care workers at a salary of R12,500. They also wanted the exploitation and victimisation of these health workers to end.

Protesters’ spokesperson Akhona Zuka, of Young Nurses Indaba, said they also wanted increases – not paid since April 2018 – for care workers.

They also wanted a new labour relations officer and wanted acting district manager Sindi Gede removed.

Zuka said the striking nurses and care workers were tired of the department’s arrogance.

“We also want them to stop sending senior officials to the metro from other districts.”

Sicwetsha said that while Saftu was not recognised by the bargaining council, the department had nevertheless decided to accept the petition.

“The appointment of management is the responsibility of the accounting officer and the MEC of health.

“The union can’t [dictate to us] who they wish to be appointed in management positions,” he said.

Nurses [want] permanent employment [for] care workers