Pretoria - Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant says it is important for workers not only to realise the gains that have been made in the 19 years of democracy, but also to commit themselves to adhering to the laws that have made the changes possible.
Speaking on the eve of Workers’ Day, Oliphant said it was significant that May Day celebrations come hot on the heels of commemorating Freedom Day.
“Clearly, the two days complement each other and no one can deny that the achievement of our freedom was to a large part predicated on the involvement of trade unions in not only shaping our new labour dispensation, but also of recognising that workers’ rights are human rights,” she said in her Workers’ Day message.
Workers Day is celebrated annually on 1 May.
The minister paid tribute to struggle heroes that had an affinity with the trade union movement such as JB Marks, Elijah Barayi, Emma Mashinini, Oliver Tambo, Chris Hani and Ray Alexander.
The minister said the heroes of the trade union movement would be concerned about the erosion of collective bargaining that is on the rise.
“They would be worried that strikes now have become so violent and that people, in the name of workers, destroy lives and property. In their honour and in doing what is correct, I would like to appeal to those involved with the trade union movement to plant a seed that recognises that rights are tempered by responsibilities.
“Turning to violence negates the important fights for better pay and better working conditions,” she said.
Oliphant also paid tribute to worker representatives, who have taken it upon themselves to improve their qualifications in the field of labour studies.
“Education is the key to everything in life and I would like to take this opportunity to encourage those who represent the workers to arm themselves with knowledge. It is only through this knowledge that they would be best able to represent and guide workers accordingly,” she said.
It was also important for the Labour Department to continue funding and assisting civic organisations whose aim was to train workers on their rights. These organisations and advice offices – including the funding for May Day celebrations - will see the department disbursing just over R16 million to various entities across the country.
“Some of these organisations do sterling work and contribute to better working conditions in this country. They must continue with the good work in the knowledge that as the department, we will support and assist them as far as possible in entrenching human rights for workers,” said Oliphant. - SAnews.gov.za
