Tuesday, July 28, 2009

MEC calls on unions not to disrupt essential services

By Ofentse Mokae
28 July 2009


Western Cape MEC for Health Theuns Botha has called on SAMWU to be more sensitive to essential services especially medical services when protesting, as they have a very significant impact on peoples’ lives and well-being.

This is after striking municipal workers entered the building at the Khayelitsha Community Health Centre in Site B and drove people out with sjamboks.

“I can only call on SAMWU to be more sensitive to facilities where essential services are provided especially medical services,” said Botha.

He said the center and other health care centers were closed today due to violent strike protests.

“We had to close down the center and we will keep it closed until I feel it is safe to reopen it again,” he concluded.

The SAPS were called, but in order not to run any risks with regard to staff and patients’ safety, it was decided to close the facility for the day.

He said the police will guard the facility tomorrow as well, and be on standby in case of any unforeseen misbehaviour.

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