Parliament salary hikes labelled ‘outrageous’
The 100% salary increase given to the lowest-paid workers in Parliament has sparked mixed reactions.
Earlier this week, Parliament confirmed that some of the lowest-paid workers, including cleaners and those in the catering services, will receive a 100% salary hike over three years.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, expressed his opposition on social media, labelling the increase as outrageous.
“Outrageous that cleaners at parliament will soon earn more than police officers working the beat. No offence to the cleaning staff, but surely we need to look after our cops. Imagine being a sergeant for over 10 years (some much longer). Despite excellent performance, you witnessed promotions of politically connected over the years, and now you hear this news. These are the changes we are fighting for, and we must speak on behalf of the cops who don’t get a fair opportunity to do so.”
Cameron told Jacaranda FM News that while fair compensation and skills development are appreciated, other public servants also need financial support.
“When this announcement was made that parliamentary cleaners would get a 100% salary increase, it really sent a wrong message about how we are looking after our cops. Not because the cleaners did anything wrong but because it seems like there is a total disregard for looking after police officers in South Africa.”
According to the South African Police Service annual report for the 2022-2023 financial year, 179,502 members earn an average monthly salary of R37,500.
The 179 502 officers include active police officers and administrative staff:
20,547 commissioned officers;
123,896 non-commissioned officers;
34,226 Public Service Act employees.
Salaries range from R299,000 annually at the lowest skill levels (1-2) to R1,431,000 at the senior management and executive levels (13-16).
Cameron said a more comprehensive approach is needed to address compensation for public servants.|
“I think it’s important that a holistic approach is made to determine where we need urgent intervention and attention to look after certain government officials, whether under police or other sectors. I just think it should be fair, and I also think it should a fair increase, not an extreme increase, even within the South African Police Service.”
ALSO READ
