Nehawu intensifies its illegal strike.

Nehawu intensifies its illegal strike. Image via Facebook/ Eastern Cape Nehawu AD

NEHAWU asked for ‘IMMEDIATE’ return by Gauteng Health

Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba says failure to report to work will result in the ‘no work no pay’ principle being applied for NEHAWU.

Nehawu intensifies its illegal strike.

Nehawu intensifies its illegal strike. Image via Facebook/ Eastern Cape Nehawu AD

On Thursday the Gauteng Department of Health called on the striking Nehawu workers to return to work.

ALSO READ: NEHAWU strike outside Department of Education offices

WORKERS ASKED NOT TO CAUSE PROPERTY

Workers have been ordered not to obstruct or cause damage to property during the strike. Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba says failure to report to work will result in the ‘no work no pay’ principle being applied.

“The department can now assure that its employees will be working in a safe and intimidation-free environment.”

ALSO READ: On This Day in South Africa: What happened on 11 March?

“The court order, amongst others, instructed the South African Police Service to take all steps necessary to give effect to the interim order. This includes the removal and expulsion of any person from properties and premises of GDoH,” says Modiba.

ALSO READ: NEHAWU strikes leaves Gauteng hospitals understaffed

SOME HOSPITALS EXPERIENCED TOTAL SHUTDOWNS

Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba says that several hospitals across the province have been affected, as previously reported.

“Some hospitals experienced total shutdown as was the case at Kopanong, Sebokeng, Thelle Mogoerane, and Bheki Mlangeni. Patients were left unattended as striking workers went inside wards ordering staff out of the facilities. 

ALSO READ: Health Department wants KZN hospitals spared from load shedding

Modiba says that the two academic hospitals, Charlotte Maxeke, and Chris Hani Baragwanath were also negatively impacted.

“The Gauteng Emergency Medical Services personnel were also threatened from responding to calls and denied access in or out of facilities causing frustration among people in need of emergency medical care.”

ALSO READ: NEHAWU members urged to get back to work

INTERDICT AGAINST NEHAWU REMAINS IN PLACE UNTIL APRIL

Modiba says that the interdict will remain in place until the parties return to court in April. 

“The interdict is applicable with immediate effect. It prevents striking workers from doing anything that will cause damage to health facilities across the Gauteng province.”