In terms of resolution No 1 of the Public Sector Co-ordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC), commonly referred to as the wage agreement, government and organised labour agreed on the implementation of the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) for Social Service Professions and Occupations.
During 2008, the employer (in this case the Department of Social Development) tabled an OSD proposal at the Public Health and Social Development Sectoral Bargaining Council (PHSDSBC) for negotiations with Labour.
After a long period of intense deliberation, discussion, and negotiations, the parties finally reached an agreement on 4 June 2009. “We congratulate all role players and thank the negotiators for their tireless efforts in reaching this historic agreement,” Social Development Minister Edna Molewa said.
The implementation of the OSD agreement will be backdated to 1 April 2008, and is applicable to the following categories of social service professions:
* Social workers (including Auxiliary Social Workers)
* Probation Officers and Assistant Probation Officers
* Community Development Practitioners (including Community Development Assistants), and
* Child and Youth Care Workers
Labour Chairperson at the PSCBC, Mr S'dumo Dlamini also thanked all parties involved. “We trust that the agreement will be implemented fully and correctly,” Mr Dlamini said.
The primary objectives of OSD include, but not limited to the following:
Grade progression and career path
The OSD makes provision for the introduction of a set of salary grades, thus giving employees career progression opportunities within the grades. In other words, professionals will now be able to spend longer time at production levels without necessarily having to apply for higher positions purely for gains in salaries. In some instances, professionals at production will be able to earn salaries equal to and sometimes, and depending on individual circumstances, earn more than their managers.
Accelerated grade progression
For the first time, OSD introduces an accelerated grade progression mechanism within the streams. This will enable the professionals who distinguish themselves from their peers, in terms of performance, to progress through the grades faster and without necessarily applying for a higher post.
Recognition of experience and overlaps in salary notches
The dispensation makes provision for recognition of experience and the contribution that social service professionals have made, and still continue to make, in dealing with the myriad of socioeconomic challenges and the increased demand for social services. Overall, the OSD recognises the valuable contribution of social service professions to the country’s development.
“The implementation of this agreement will enable the sector to attract and retain the current skills force within the public service. It will also bring about uniformity in the remuneration of professionals. We are elated, and with the continued support and partnership with our social partners we will ensure that this agreement is implemented correctly without any further delays,” Minister Molewa said.
Implementation will commence in July.
Enquiries:
Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148
Issued by: Department of Social Development
10 June 2009
