area
1 March 2007
The Department of Labour inspectors could not conduct inspections at 17
farms, during a week long inspection campaign in the Carnarvon, Fraserburg and
Van Wykvlei areas even after securing appointments.
Spokesperson Zolisa Sigabi said, "Actions of some farmers are disappointing.
Even when their leadership had pledged to co-operate with inspectors during a
meeting held on 21 February 2007 in Carnarvon. Further on this was a follow up
to inspections conducted late last year where labour inspectors could not enter
more than 50 farms in the area."
During the meeting Agri forum and Agri union representative blamed their
members' absence to many reasons. These include that members were on holiday;
other farms were no longer in operation and that inspectors had failed to
secure appointments well in time.
The blitz inspections checked on compliance with the basic conditions of
employment for farm workers.
Out of 48 inspections conducted, the compliance rate was 79,2%. Of these 27
were follow ups and their level of compliance was 99%. Over 10 undertakings
were served, one non-compliance order which related to failure to pay the
minimum wage, non issuing of payslips, 10% deduction for accommodation, failure
to record workers' particulars properly and failing to pay workers overtime for
work on Sundays.
Enquiries:
Zolisa Sigabi
Cell: 082 906 3878
Issued by: Department of Labour
1 March 2007
