The Eastern Cape Department of Health has confirmed
that its Forensic Pathology Services workers have embarked on a wildcat strike
over unpaid overtime, a move that has affected services.
The workers from Buffalo City Metro, Amathole, OR
Tambo and Alfred Nzo have downed tools, demanding the immediate payment for the
overtime that is above 30% of their salaries.
The matter is receiving the urgency that it
deserves.
Health MEC Nomakhosazana Meth said she was concerned
by the action.
“A meeting between management and labour is discussing
these matters. We hope that we will find one another other and ensure we
continue serving the people of the Eastern Cape with efficiency.
“We are appealing to communities to please bear with
us until this has been resolved. Forensic pathology services are essential
services which means this action is unlawful. The Department will take
appropriate disciplinary action against those participating in it,” Meth said.
While the unprotected strike continues, the department
has contingency plans in place. These include emergency procurement of funeral
parlours to pick up bodies and transport to the Department’s mortuaries.
Already, on Monday night, the department embarked on
emergency procurement when three bodies — two in Mdantsane and one near Port
Alfred were collected.
Facility managers have also been instructed to pick up
bodies until services have been restored to normalcy.
The department is expected to provide an update after
the meeting with labour unions today, August 24.
