NUMSA calls on Labour Dept to do an oversight inspection at SA Steel Mills

JOHANNESBURG - The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has called on the Department of Labour to do an oversight inspection of SA Steel Mills. 

NUMSA alleges the Alberton-based company is flouting labour laws by hiring undocumented foreign nationals. 

This relates to an ongoing dispute between the union and the company, following the dismissal of more than 100 NUMSA members who were participating in a protected strike. 

The union is calling on the Department of Labour to conduct an inspection of the company’s premises, alleging that undocumented foreign nationals have been hired and are living on the property. 

NUMSA spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola: "There are a lot of accidents that happen in this company because this management does not adhere to basic safety laws and unfortunately, the Department of Labour does not regulate them."

The issue between NUMSA and SA Steel Mills dates back to April when the union was granted permission through the courts to embark on a protected strike against the company. 

NUMSA members are calling on SA Steel Mills to recognise the union. 

SA Steel Mills said the dismissal of the 124 workers was not in contravention of the court judgment. Further, the company refuted NUMSA’s allegations that undocumented nationals had been hired and were staying on the premises.