COSATU supports NEHAWU’s court battle for the permanent absorption of Community Healthcare Workers

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is fully behind its affiliate, the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (NEHAWU) as it heads to the Labour Court on Tuesday, 29 October, in defence of Community Healthcare Workers. The union seeks to review the arbitration award that ruled against its application to compel the Department of Health to appoint Community Healthcare Workers permanently.

NEHAWU's case is justified. Community Healthcare Workers (CHW) have for years played a critical role in ensuring that the citizens of this country are provided with health services. Since their introduction in 2010, they have contributed hugely to improving access to healthcare and encouraging healthy behaviour in vulnerable communities, through community and family engagements, leading to less disease and better population health. The CHW model has been highly beneficial especially to communities who reside far from clinics and hospitals.

Nurses, doctors and other healthcare workers in the public sector work tirelessly, under strenuous conditions. They work under pressure despite the monotonous challenges which are exacerbated by staff shortages and budget austerity measures. Community Healthcare Workers have assisted greatly in the alleviation of these factors within the health system, yet they do not enjoy the benefits of permanent employment. Instead, they are kept in recurring fixed-term contracts.

It was them who, together with their counterparts, demonstrated resilience and dedication in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic risking their lives to the save the lives of others. The Department of Health's failure to employ them on a permanent basis is disheartening considering the period in which it has kept them in fixed-term contracts while they remain unwavering in their duties towards accessible healthcare for all.

COSATU stands by its militant affiliate, NEHAWU. The court battle is a clear indication of the union's commitment to annihilating the chains of exploitation and slavery. These workers toil yet they are cheated of the benefits which are enjoyed by public servants who are permanent employees. They deserve to be recognised formally as an integral part of the healthcare system.

Issued by COSATU

Zanele Sabela(COSATU National Spokesperson)

Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639

Email: [email protected]