The United National Transport Union (UNTU) welcomes the ruling of the Labour Court in Johannesburg about the unlawful dismissal of four SABC’s journalists.

"The judgement of Judge Robert Lagrange ordering the SABC to reinstate the journalists in their positions immediately is a clear indication to parastatals like the public broadcaster that they are not above the law. Like any other employer the SABC must adhere to constitutional principles that every employee in South Africa are entitled to," says Mr. Steve Harris, General Secretary of UNTU.

According to Mr. Harris there is a growing tendency amongst parastatals like the SABC, Bombela, operator of the Gautrein, Transnet and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) to ignore democratic principles to suit their own needs.

"UNTU can only hope that the relevant Ministers responsible for these parastatals will act and ensure that basic labour laws are obeyed and that the principals of collective bargaining are respected, " says Mr. Harris.

The court also issued an interdict against any further disciplinary action against the four journalist.

Issued by UNTU