CWU calls for total shutdown at SABC
The Communications Workers Union (CWU) is threatening a total shutdown at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).
Workers are demanding a 10% salary increase and a guaranteed payment of a 13th bonus cheque.
The CWU's general secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala, says the strike will lead to a complete blackout of news and radio services.
"The negotiations have yield negative results. It has almost been eight months of negotiations. We have had meetings with the SABC and newly elected board however they are not prepared to move an inch. We have received a certificate from the CCMA allowing us to issue a 48-hour notice to the SABC to embark on a strike."
The CWU and Broadcasting, Electronic, Media & Allied Workers Union (BEMAWU) represents majority of the workers at the public broadcaster.
"We have consulted with our members extensively. They are all calling for an absolute industrial action. We are still speaking to Polokwane, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape SABC branches, once this have been concluded we will embark on the strike," says Tshabalala.
The SABC has requested another bailout from National Treasury to help the broadcaster stay afloat. This comes after a bailout in 2009 of more than R1 billion. The Auditor-General also reported an annual loss of R977 million at the end of September.
"They argue that they don't have funds, but you cannot put the blame on the shoulders of workers. SABC workers are expected to compete with other broadcasters but the salaries are not matching of what is required of them," says Tshabalala.