Staff fed up with late payments

PARAMEDICS working for Western Cape emergency services are fed up with the constant late payments of their overtime and allowances.

In expressing their grievances, the staff demanded answers from their human resources department.

“We are upset due to the constant late payment by EMS human resources. We want answers. We are not concerned about salary increases at present, as we understand (this issue) is at arbitration.

“Thursdays are the days for payroll allowance, and it is almost the closure of the time-sheet cycle.

“We as staff receive no support for working in red zones – dangerous areas – but we are receiving late payment of our monies. This is our overtime and allowances,” EMS staff said, speaking anonymously.

Department of Health spokesperson Byron la Hoe said protocol had to be followed.

“EMS staff are paid their standard salaries on the 15th of every month.

“Allowances above basic salaries have to go through an approval process to ensure correctness and compliance. We currently have no open queries for non-payment.

“Staff are reminded to follow these processes, and we commit to rectifying any issues fairly and transparently. In addition, salary increases are negotiated nationally.

“As staff safety is a high priority for the Western Cape Department of Health, various safety initiatives are in place to support staff both within and outside of the demarcated red zones.”

EMS received escorts from the police to red zones such as Beacon Valley, Tafelsig, Hanover Park and Chicago.

“While appreciative of the SAPS’s ongoing support, this enabled the most vulnerable from these neighbourhoods to receive patient-centred treatment,” the department said.

“Our emergency medical responders will continue to work tirelessly with the other key components within the public health system to best serve patients through the continuum of emergency care and save their lives.”

EMS has 250 ambulances in operation in the province.

A staff member who asked not to be identified said they felt unable to speak. “Staff feel victimised that they cannot speak about their concerns.”

| FILE PARAMEDICS working for Western Cape emergency services are up in arms claiming they have to wait for late payments of their overtime and allowances.