South African National Parks (SANParks) Management has announced that the strike has been suspended until July 24, this following confirmation that a number of employees who are members of the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (Hospersa), abandoned their work stations in different parks and divisions on July 19.
This came after the meeting that was facilitated by the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) failed to resolve the salary dispute between the two parties.
“After assessment of all National Parks we have found that there are pockets of areas where staff members either did not report for work or reported and then left as a result of the envisaged strike. We have contingency plans in place for all parks to be able to serve our visitors. We do, however, encourage those who wish to make reservations do so via the Internet at www.sanparks.org for a speedier service,” says SANParks Head of Communications, Janine Raftopoulos.
SANParks has activated its contingency plans in all parks and will be monitoring the situation closely. The South African Police Services, South African National Defence Force and volunteers from Working for Water have been posted at entrance gates to ensure a safe passage for all visitors entering the parks.
“Guests travelling to any of our parks should continue with their plans as we aim to ensure that they enjoy their stay. We are also waiting for the finalisation of picketing rules,” added Raftopoulos.
Hospersa is demanding a 9% increase for its members, while SANParks is offering 6.01% salary adjustment and a 1% pay progression with a total offer of 7%. Even though the strike is protected, the ‘no work no pay’ rule will apply to those who take part in the industrial action.
For updates, guests can visit the SANParks website at www.sanparks.org or call 012 428 9111.
