Health Department concerned over funeral industry strike
The Department of Health has warned that the planned strike by employees in the funeral industry could pose a risk to public health.
More than 3 000 funeral industry employees are planning to down tools from Monday.
The shutdown comes after the government failed to respond to the sector’s list of demands, which include concern over corruption in the industry.
In a statement on Sunday, the Department of Health reiterated that all funeral undertakers and mortuary premises must own a valid certificate of competence.
Spokesperson Popo Maja says inspections will be done at all premises around the country to ensure compliance with the regulations.
"Legal action will be taken against owners of premises found to be in contravention. Family members are urged to check the legitimacy of the undertakers and agents being utilised for overall management of the burial of their loved ones to ensure proper tracking and tracing and that the handling of the remains is done with dignity and within the law.”
At the same time, he says the Department of Health is willing to continue discussions with the sector to try and come to an amicable solution.
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Strike set to hit funeral parlours
The shutdown comes after the government failed to respond to the sector's list of demands, which include concern over corruption in the industry. National Funeral Practitioners Association of South Africa president Muzi Hlengwa says the shutdown will take place from Monday.
