NUM outraged at Eskom retrenchments
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has lashed out at power utility Eskom over its plans to retrench workers.
“We are flabbergasted to hear about the retrenchments at Eskom,” the union said on Wednesday after power utility confirmed that it started with a Section 189 process to retrench workers.
The embattled state-owned entity says it’s the only way to save the company from collapse.
In a statement, Eskom said that it had approved a plan to cut jobs at a management level in a bid to save on costs.
ALSO READ: Greenpeace in talks with Eskom, govt on Mpumalanga pollution
“As a result, Eskom’s Board of Directors has decided to review the company’s organisational design to enhance operational and cost efficiencies,” Eskom said.
The union’s Paris Mashego says they are rejecting the business model, which is aimed at curbing costs and revamping the origination.
According to Mashego, the plans include the privatisation of certain divisions within the power utility.
ALSO READ: Eskom proposes 15% tariff increase
“We also rejected Eskom stance that restructuring is informed by none accountability by workers at all levels. Eskom should not be privatised, managers must manage the business without fear or favour.”