The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) is pleased that an agreement has been reached to end the strike in the transport industry. SACCI admires the transport companies for their responsible handling of the situation and offers our best wishes to a quick return to normal operational levels.
The acts of intimidation committed by striking workers however remain a significant concern and cannot be condoned. SACCI calls on the authorities to investigate and prosecute the individuals responsible for these acts of vandalism. The transport industry is vital to South African economy, and the flagrant disregard for private property by some of the strikers in destroying valuable assets like trucks ultimately hurts the poor, unemployed and SMEs disproportionately.
At the recent SACCI Annual Convention held on the 4th and 5th of October 2012, H.E. President Jacob Zuma noted that we must create a climate of constructive social dialogue, which South Africans are known for. SACCI supports the President in his view and is calling on labour unions to act responsibly in the best interest of the South African economy and to enforce discipline in the event of industrial action in the future so as to avoid a recurrence of property destruction and worker intimidation.