COSATU gave notice to NEDLAC of their intention to embark on nation-wide protest action on Monday, 7 October 2024. What does this mean for employers?
The intended protest action stems from COSATU’s demand some years ago “that retrenchments to maximize profits must stop”. COSATU alleges that since then “we have seen the number of retrenchments increase at alarming rates accompanied by weak economic growth as well as rising costs of living.”
The protest action, which is due commence at 00h00 and end at 23h59 on Monday, 7 October 2024, will take the form of marches and pickets across the country and in all major cities and towns.
What should employers do?
The protest action will be in compliance with section 77 of the Labour Relations Act.
While the protest action is not expected to be widely supported, employers must bear in mind that employees who participate in the protest action or conduct in anticipation or furtherance of the protest action, will enjoy legal protection.
No disciplinary action should therefore be taken against employees (other than those who are engaged in essential service or maintenance services), who do not report for work due to their participation in the protest action.
However, the “no work, no pay” principle should be applied in respect of those who do not work.
