The Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Services is concerned about media reports about the non-payment of full salaries to employees of the South African Post Office (Sapo).
“We have also verified independently that Sapo will indeed pay 50% salaries to all its employees, while the remaining 50% will only be paid on 31 October 2015. The issue of non-payment of salaries to employees is concerning as it has a direct bearing on the well-being of employees who have to be compensated for their labour,” said Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi, Committee Chairperson.
As a result, the Committee will convene an urgent meeting next week on 29 October 2015, comprising the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services, National Treasury and Sapo to deal with long-term payment of salaries, Universal Service Obligation funding challenges, as well as other outstanding audit matters including capital requirements of the Post Office.
Ms Kubayi reiterated that the Committee was aware of the tough trading conditions that prevailed in the last two financial years which have seen expenses outstrip revenue, resulting in cash flow challenges at the Post Office. In addition, the Post Office failed to finalise its 2014/15 annual report on time.
“While these challenges are real, they should not supersede the payment of staff members, all of whom have financial obligations to meet and families to look after,” said Ms Kubayi.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Justice Molafo
Tel: 021 403 8444
Cell: 081 424 7481
E-mail: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za
