workers
8 August 2007
The current labour laws providing for improved wage and working conditions
of domestic workers were contributing immensely to the total emancipation of
South African women, Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana said ahead of
tomorrow's Women's Day celebrations.
The Minister said in a statement that by setting minimum wages, working
hours, number of leave days and employment termination rules, the legislation
was helping bring back the dignity of women who form the bulk of most
vulnerable workers in the country's workplaces. This, he said, was in line with
this year's theme of Emancipation, Empowerment, Equality and Eradication of
Povertyâ¦Now.
The law, which has proved to be a success since its implementation, covers
all domestic workers, including housekeepers, gardeners, nannies and domestic
drivers in a sector predominantly dominated by women.
"One had to only look at the ever-increasing numbers of domestic workers
being registered with the UIF to measure the success of the law. More than 630
000 domestic workers have been registered with the UIF by more than 679 000
employers," the Minister said. He added that on average about 300 new domestic
workers were being registered with the fund every month.
While applauding domestic employers for ensuring that their workers enjoyed
social protection, the Minister also cautioned that employers' obligation went
beyond just registering your employees, but also made.
Issued by: Department of Labour
8 August 2007
Source: Department of Labour (http://www.labour.gov.za)
