Labour judge takes laboratory workers to task for their lack of empathy
"As a society‚ we have lost our sense of Ubuntu towards the suffering and pain of our fellow beings‚ especially those caught in a moment of grief and bereavement." Labour Court Judge J Tlhotlhalemaje has reminded South Africans that pay disputes do not overrule what is morally right. At stake was a work-to-rule action at Gauteng’s forensic laboratories‚ with unionised forensics officers from the National Education Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) and Public Servants Association of SA wanting the same basic grade as pathologists. While granting an interdict at the weekend to halt the stoppage‚ the judge criticised the workers as well as the government for not adequately recognising ordinary citizens’ rights to be treated with dignity. The forensics officers work throughout Gauteng and assist forensic pathologists. Their work affects the evidence presented in court and ensures that the cause of death is determined and correctly recorded at the Department of Home Affairs‚ befor...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.