Calls intensify for violence to end at strike-hit hospitals
The Congress of South African Trade Unions has called on members of its affiliate Nehawu not to resort to violence during the ongoing strike at hospitals around the country.
There have been reports of striking workers barricading entrances to health facilities - including hospitals and clinics in Gauteng.
Members of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union downed tools on Monday over pay.
They are insisting of a wage increase of between 10% after rejecting the 3% that government has imposed.
Cosatu's spokesperson Sizwe Pamla says there is a need to return to the negotiating table as prolonged action will have a devastating impact on public services and the economy.
"Although they are fighting a legitimate cause, we have been disturbed by reports of destruction of property and incidences of violence by striking workers.
"As a federation, we support our members but we can never condone violence. So we urge members of the strike to continue to strike in a peaceful, disciplined and lawful manner and they must remember communities who use these public facilities are victims of an uncaring government so they don't need to also be victimised by workers."
The Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council is also calling for unions and the employer to go back to the negotiating table.
The Human Rights Commission has meanwhile urged government to intervene in the ongoing strike.
It says the mater should be resolved peacefully.
