6 August 2007
The Minister of Minerals and Energy Ms Buyelwa Sonjica would like to assure
South Africans that an end to the strike in the liquid fuels sector is in the
offing. Minister Sonjica said, "I initiated meetings with both the employer and
employee organisations last week to stress the importance of resolving this
salary dispute as a matter of urgency. I can safely say that following these
meetings a resolution to the current dispute is imminent". The Minister said
that she emphasised to the parties that collective bargaining matters could not
supersede those of broader national interest.
One of strategic imperatives of the Department of Minerals and Energy is to
ensure security of energy supply in South Africa. In pursuit of this strategic
imperative, the Minister is therefore obliged to intervene in matters where
energy security is being threatened. It was in this context that Minister
Sonjica intervened and impressed on both the employer and employee
organisations involved in the negotiation process, to strike a delicate balance
between collective bargaining arrangements and national security, especially
since the shortage of fuel has far reaching implications.
"I however, wish to assure South Africans that there is no fuel crisis in
the country and that this is purely a matter of logistical constraints
resulting from the strike. I would therefore, like to urge the public to
refrain from panic buying because it serves only to exacerbate the situation.
This is especially in light of the fact that the dispute will soon be
resolved."
The Minister held a meeting with the unions last week, where she urged them
to find an amicable and speedy resolution to the strike as it was affecting the
ordinary South African in more ways than one. Another meeting was convened by
the Director-General of the Department of Minerals and Energy Advocate Sandile
Nogxina with the governors of the South African Petroleum Industries
Association (Sapia) last week, where he emphasised the need for them to find a
solution to this crisis as a matter of urgency.
Minister Sonjica says she is confident in the leadership of the employer and
employee organisations involved in this matter, and has no doubt that they will
honour their undertaking.
Enquiries:
Ms Bontle Mafuna
Chief Director: Communication
Tel: 012 317 8185
Fax: 012 322 0810
Cell: 082 773 2388
E-mail: bontle.mafuna@dme.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Minerals and Energy
6 August 2007
Source: Department of Minerals and Energy (http://www.dme.gov.za)
