Parliament notes with serious concern today’s unauthorised, unprotected and illegal work stoppage by members of the National Education Health and Allied Workers union (Nehawu).

Parliament is by law regarded as an essential service.

The strike action is apparently in response to the precautionary suspension of two staff members, who are also Nehawu members. The two officials were suspended following disruption of two staff general meetings addressed by the Secretary to Parliament.

No official communication was issued by the union regarding the strike.

The suspension of the officials does not suggest that they are guilty of the charges against them. They remain employees of Parliament and continue to receive their usual remuneration pending the outcome of internal disciplinary processes.

Issued by Parliament of RSA