The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services today welcomed the proposed recruitment turnaround strategy presented today by the Department of Correctional Services.
The Committee heard that the plan will be adopted with effect from 1 April 2016 and will provide strict deadlines for the filling of posts. A retirement plan has also been drawn up and will be considered in the finalisation of the recruitment plan in an attempt to ensure recruitment commences prior to the official terminating of employment.
Committee Chairperson Dr Mathole Motshekga welcomed the move, saying the Committee has been concerned about the high vacancy rate. “The vacancy rate has been a grave concern to the Committee. Vacancies can place the safety of our officials and that of offenders at risk.”
The Committee further heard that from April 2015 to January 2016 a total of 1 355 officials left the employ of Correctional Services. This figure is made up predominantly of resignations, followed by retirements and deaths.
The Department started a recruitment drive in November last year. The purpose of the drive is to fill existing vacancies and establish a database of suitable candidates for the filling of posts that will be vacated with effect from 1 April 2016 to ensure all vacant posts are filled as soon as possible.
The Department further cautioned that as it fills posts, others are becoming vacant. “It is like filling a bucket with holes.”
Dr Motshekga encouraged the Department to continue with the progress made on this matter and to put every effort into ensuring that vacancies are filled with speed. “The Committee will be monitoring the situation and the implementation of these plans on a regular basis.”
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Rajaa Azzakani
Tel: (021) 403 8437
Cell: 081 703 9542
E-mail: razzakani@parliament.gov.za
