24 August 2010

The IFP in Gauteng has made an urgent appeal to all citizens of Gauteng to volunteer their services at hospitals, in the spirit of ubuntu/botho, to assist with the cleaning and feeding of patients and even cutting the grass at hospitals. 

"Let us all lend a hand at our hospitals, for the sake of those who desperately need our help. We especially request IFP members to respond to our call, in their numbers, for the benefit of the Province," said Khethamabala Sithole MP, IFP Chairperson of Gauteng.

The IFP in Gauteng said that it condemned, in the strongest terms, the intimidation, assault of non-striking employees and members of the public, as well as the damage to state property by members of different striking unions. 

"It is the right of non-striking workers and the public to go to their places of work. The IFP agrees that striking union members are entitled to exercise their constitutional right to embark on industrial action, however the Constitution of our country gives all citizens freedom of choice and striking members cannot deny others that right," said Sithole.

Sithole urged Unions and Government to return to negotiations through the bargaining council, so that they could immediately settle their differences.

"Innocent people are suffering as a result of union members' industrial action. We need to resolve this crisis urgently," added Sithole.

Contact: Khethamabala Sithole MP, IFP Chairperson Gauteng, 082 743 1348.