The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) expresses concern at the apparent non-recognition of the CGE’s mandate and the public hearing process, demonstrated by the reluctance of companies to appear before this public hearing. The CGE had to resort to subpoenaing four of the six companies scheduled to appear at the hearing today.
In the main, it would appear that the gender and disability components of employment equity seem to be largely unknown at best, or ignored at worst, in contravention of the Employment Equity Act. Companies demonstrate a lack of a coherent gender transformation policy and disability policies – with little evidence of targets, strategy, targeted skills development programmes, designated responsibility measured through performance management mechanisms, again, In contravention of the Employment Equity Act (EEA).
We are also concerned that gender transformation appears to be favouring white women, and that insufficient measures are being taken to recruit and promote black women to positions of senior management. In addition, sexual harassment policies have not been put in place in some companies, in contravention of Basic Conditions of Employment and Labour Relations Acts.
Most companies cite that no sexual harassment cases have been taken up, which does not indicate that no harassment is taking place in the workplace, but rather that inadequate policies and systems have been implemented. There was concern expressed at the poor representation of women in the mining and engineering sector, and the need for innovative interventions to encourage and support women in this sector.
Of concern, some companies cited challenges in addressing compliance with all Employment Equity Act provisions, noting lack of adequate capacity and knowledge. They also reported difficulties in the recruitment of people with disabilities, clearly demonstrating the need for clear targets and strategies in this regard.
The public hearing will reconvene tomorrow, with six government departments scheduled to take the stand.
Enquiries:
Javu Baloyi
Cell: 083 579 3306
