Members of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) have committed to intensify their industrial action.
Their pledge was as a result of the Department of Public Service and Administration obtaining a court interdict to halt the strike.
On Monday, the Labour Court in Johannesburg reinstated its interdict granted on Saturday. However, Nehawu members chose to ignore it and proceeded with the strike.
Nehawu is convinced that the Labour Court erred when it granted the interdict, saying it is appealing the court ruling.
“We believe strongly that the Labour Appeal Court will arrive at a different conclusion on the matter,” Nehawu said.
“Having launched an appeal, the union will be forging ahead with the public service strike until a determination is made on our appeal.”
— NEHAWU (@NEHAWU) March 1, 2023
The Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and Helen Joseph Hospital were among the most affected public health facilities.
On Tuesday, patients could not gain entry into the Helen Joseph Hospital after they were turned away on Monday.
Police have since been deployed to the two hospitals following disruptions on Monday.
Police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo assured that a plan is in place to deal with violence that might break out during the strike.
“We are monitoring all government buildings where union members are protesting. We will be present and do what we need to avoid violence,” Masondo said.
Wage negotiations between the two parties broke down in February. The department is offering a 4.7% increase while unions are demanding between 10% and 12%.
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