The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson, cordially invites members of the media to the National Farmworkers’ Summit to be held from 30 to 31 July 2010 at Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West, Western Cape.
The theme of the summit is "Towards a better life for vulnerable workers".
The Honourable President Jacob Zuma will deliver the keynote address on Friday, 30 July 2010.
This Farmworkers’ Summit is an attempt to address the vulnerability of farmworkers across the board including those who for a very long time suffered all forms of injustices. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is ready to host and convene the first ever National Farmworkers'Summit. All nine provinces have convened provincial mini summits as a preliminary process which is culminating in the national summit.
Farmworkers are among the most vulnerable of the South African working class. Whilst a number of measures have been put in place to protect them, most still do not enjoy some of the most basic social achievements of the democratic dispensation, such as better wages and improved and fair conditions of employment. This scenario prompted the Department of Labour to promulgate the legislation determining the minimum wage and other minimum standards in the farming community.
For the purposes of protocol, security and logistics, kindly confirm your attendance at the summit by 27 July, indicating which of the two days you will be present.
RSVPs:
Ms Mercia Smith
Tel: 012 319 6666
Cell: 082 423 1230
E-mail: merciaS@daff.gov.za
For further information, contact:
Ms Noncedo Vutula
Tel: 012 319 7348
Cell: 082 523 4904
E-mail: CDCI@daff.gov.za
