Issued by: The Ministry of Transport
STATEMENT BY MR MAC MAHARAJ, MINISTER OF TRANSPORT
TRANSPORT AND GENERAL WORKERS' UNION: PROPOSED NATIONAL STRIKE 21 May 1996
There are differences of views between the Transport and General Workers' Union and my Department, particularly with regards to public passenger transport policy.
The present approach in the Green Paper is the outcome of 18 months of consultation with all stakeholders in the transport sector.
We are all, across the board, agreed that the present subsidy system is in need of a radical overhaul. In particular, we want to move to a system where the transport needs of the community determine the type of public transport service that is provided.
We also want to ensure that subsidies are related to real costs and encourage cost cutting and more efficient services.
In addition, we need to bring an end to the operators' monopoly, which arises from lifelong permits and where the provision of public transport is determined by the operator.
The current system is unsustainable.
Differences arise on the way forward. Some of these differences are regrettably due to misunderstandings. The T&GWU has as yet not come forward with a viable proposal. Their objections to the tender system arise out of fears that the pressure in the new system would bring about more stress and less job security.
These are legitimate concerns. They need to be addressed in the context that the needs driven provision of services will lead to an expansion of bus services.
There is thus a huge area of consensus between all stakeholders, and I am hopeful that the restructuring which is essential for transformation will not be blocked by the T&GWU.
Issued by Elsa Kruger, Ministerial Liaison Officer Tel 012 328-3084