The release of the Corruption Watch Covid-19 TERS Corruption at Work report highlights the experiences of whistle-blowers short-changed by employers in delivering what was promised as temporary economic relief during Covid-19. The Temporary Employer / Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) was introduced during the national hard lockdown as one of a range of economic stimulus measures in response to the Covid-19 epidemic.

Its purpose was to provide support to employees whose possibility for work or providing services were curtailed during lockdown, as stipulated by the disaster regulations, under which only certain industry sectors and workers were regarded as essential. By 31 July 2020, a total of R37.1-billion had been disbursed from the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) – but not all employees received the funds due to them.

Report by Corruption Watch