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Update on the Limpopo Circular 4 of 2021 implementation and refusal by the provincial department of health to consult with SAMATU

Published on February 25, 2021

Dear SAMATU Member

SAMATU would like to give an update on the matter regarding the Limpopo Department of Health unlawfully implementing circular 4 of 2021 and refusing to consult with Trade Unions in compliance with the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995.

SAMATU hereby places on record that the Provincial Department of Health is still steadfast in intending to implement circular 4 of 2021, even after we have sent communication to that effect, explaining the reasons why the circular should be suspended; and a process of consultation with SAMATU should be embarked upon. SAMATU demanded and still demands the suspension of circular 4 of 2021 because the employer is in violation of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, mainly sections 85 (1) (2) (3) and (4).

On the 19th of February 2021, a Management-Labour Forum virtual meeting was convened by the employer, where all trade unions participating in the Limpopo Health Bargaining Chamber attended and organised labour echoed the same sentiments that the employer must meaningfully consult with employee representatives before implementing the circular and ultimately the circular should be suspended.

Today (24 February 2021), SAMATU will furnish the Limpopo Department of Health with a letter from our Legal Counsel that failure to suspend Circular 4 of 2021 with immediate effect in its entirety and meaningfully consult with the Trade Union on the matter in question will leave it with no choice but to explore legal remedies at our disposal, ensuring that the matter gets meaningfully consulted in the Provincial Health and Social Development Chamber.

It should be noted that the attitude of the Limpopo Department of Health Management under the leadership of MEC (Dr Phophi Ramathuba) leaves much to be desired and this conduct is highly unacceptable.

SAMATU is duty bound to ensure that workers’ rights are not violated and will do everything in its power to ensure that all our members’ interests are protected in the workplace.  

Kind Regards, 
SAMATU