The Eastern Cape Department of Health understands that there are negotiations currently underway between labour and the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) on salaries and benefits. However all health personnel must act responsibly during this period because they are rendering an essential service to poor and indigent people.
As Eastern Cape Health we have a responsibility to ensure that there is adequate staff to render essential services to our people. Safety of patients and staff is of critical importance to us, thus we are making every effort to ensure that health personnel especially health professionals are on duty to assist patients.
An appeal is being made to all health personnel to refrain from violence and intimidation against innocent patients and staff who are attempting to serve the people. All workers have the constitutional right to strike, however no one has the right to prevent any worker from exercising their right and choice to come to work. It is a criminal act to engage in acts of intimidation.
An appeal has been made to the district health council to coordinate with district health managers for volunteers who are willing to assist in clinics and hospitals where health personnel are absent due to the strike.
Enquiries:
Siyanda Manana
Cell: 083 378 1646
Source: Department of Health, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
