5 February 2007
The Head of Department (HoD), Dr BM Nyembezi, in the KwaZulu Natal
Department of Health has effectively dismissed all nurses who are engaged in
the illegal industrial action as of today. This follows the ultimatum that the
HoD issued to all those engaged in this illegal action.
The institutions that have continued with the illegal action despite the
HoD's ultimatum include; Prince Mshiyeni Memorial, Edendale, GJ Crookes,
Appelsbosch, Ntunjambili, Mphumulo, Ngwelezane, Lower Umfolozi War Memorial,
and Madadeni Hospitals. The number of staff affected by this dismissal cannot
be ascertained as some people have since returned to work after the
ultimatum.
The department has the situation under control to ensure that service
delivery is not compromised. People who are on leave have been called back,
student nurses are also utilised to fill the gaps as well the engagement of
nurse's employment agencies to provide staff. The state of health care can be
confirmed to be stable and running in all institutions.
The "no work no pay" has been effected for the duration of the action days
for all those who have participated in the illegal action and dismissals are
effected as of today. A court interdict is being sought from the High Court to
prevent the dismissed workers from disrupting services in the institutions.
Further actions include the verification of sick certificates, and working with
the South African Police Service (SAPS) to lay charges against those
intimidating working nurses. Doctors who are identified to have issued
fraudulent sick certificates will be reported to the Health Professions Council
of South Africa (HPCSA).
Once again, the department wish to inform all nurses that this matter has
been previously discussed at the Minister and MEC's Forum (MINMEC), where it
was resolved that the matter will be forwarded to the Public Service Central
Bargaining council (PSCBC). The negotiations on public service working
conditions are due to resume soon and it is believed that this matter will be
raised by organised labour.
The HoD has appointed a Liaison Team to monitor and ensure that service
delivery is kept at optimal levels until the matter is resolved.
Dr BM Nyembezi
Head of Department
For more information please contact:
Mr Leon Mbangwa
Cell: 083 459 8695
Issued by: Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
5 February 2007
