SATAWU marches for workers’ rights in the security sector

Members of the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) and its affiliates gathered last Thursday to express concerns about the security sector.

Led by the National Security Coordinator, they highlighted two main issues: compliance with industry regulations and funding for the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (CIRA). The march aimed to present workers' grievances to the Portfolio Committee on Safety and the Department of Treasury.

Participants criticized CIRA for not enforcing compliance among security companies, especially regarding fair wages and treatment of workers.

A key issue was CIRA's funding model, which relies on deductions from the low salaries of security workers, unlike other regulatory bodies that receive state funding. The union called for the government to take over funding CIRA.

Picture: Stephanie Van Rayen

Marchers also expressed concerns about the Treasury awarding contracts to non-compliant security companies, insisting that all contracts should protect workers' rights.

Unfortunately, the memorandum detailing these issues could not be submitted because the Chief of Security was unavailable. This raises further questions about the commitment to addressing these concerns.

Overall, the march highlighted SATAWU's ongoing fight for better treatment and compliance in the security industry, stressing the need for systemic change to protect workers' rights.

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen