Govt snubs mediation

Sharon Mathala | Friday March 14, 2014 17:02

 

The independent mediation, called Commissioner of Labour, was to discuss the deadlock in the 2013/14 salary negotiations.

BOFEPUSU deputy secretary general Ketlhalefile Motshegwa told Mmegi that the union was still in shock over the DPSM failure to pitch for the meeting, or even advance reasons.

 “At 9 am, at the Block 8 Labour office, only the trade union party turned up for mediation and the employer was nowhere to be seen. This is a serious sad day for mediation and broader labour relations in the country when the government disrespects laws and procedures that she is supposed to enforce,” said Motshegwa.

Motshegwa said as BOFEPUSU they interpret the employer’s actions as disregard of the Commissioner of Labour.

“What is troubling is the attitude by the employer to be choosy regarding whether or not to appear at mediation when laws of the country are made for everyone. Then again don’t forget that the director of DPSM has gone public saying he is untouchable,” said Motshegwa.

Motshegwa said that BOFEPUSU has since communicated its displeasure to the minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Edwin Batshu pertaining to the conduct of the director of DPSM. He said the minister has since stated that a new date will be set for mediation.

Efforts to contact the director of DPSM Carter Morupisi were futile at press time.