The Labour Court in Gqeberha has sided with the South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU) in a case involving eight doctors who faced unjust demotions due to administrative failures by the Eastern Cape Department of Health.
This after the department failed to accurately process the doctors’ grade progression. The act resulted in erroneous notifications that the doctors owed the state amounts ranging from R100,000 to R500,000 each.
According to SAMATU, this administrative blunder led to wrongful demotions and salary adjustments. It caused significant distress among the affected medical professionals.
Restraining order against department
The court ruled in favour of the doctors, issuing a restraining order against the department.
“The department has been interdicted from implementing any salary adjustments or deductions related to the alleged debts. Furthermore, the court ordered the reversal of the demotions and all associated salary changes,” said SAMATU.
The matter has now been referred to the bargaining council for further deliberation.
“This ruling is a significant victory not only for the affected doctors but for all SAMATU members. It emphasises our commitment to protecting the rights of doctors and advocating for fair treatment in the workplace,” the union stated.
SAMATU also urged doctors facing similar challenges to seek support. It emphasised unity in addressing labour issues.
Call for all affected doctors
“We urge all doctors to remember that you need not face these challenges in isolation. Please contact SAMATU for all labour issues, as we are here to support you. Let us stand together, united in our commitment to making our voice as doctors louder and stronger.”
Earlier this year, unemployed doctors in the province protested the lack of job opportunities after completing their community service, despite severe understaffing in public hospitals.
They demanded employment and an end to what they see as a crisis in the province’s healthcare system. The doctors staged protests, including pickets outside the premier’s office. And they threatened to escalate their actions if their demands are not met.
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