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Media Release: SANParks establishes Bargaining Forum with Unions

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Date: 9th March 2012

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has agreed to the establishment of a joint bargaining forum for collective bargaining purposes with two of its recognised trade unions, the Health and Other Service Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA) and the South African Commercial, Catering & Allied Workers Union (SACCAWU).

According to SANParks General Manager: Labour Relations, Norman Sanderson the parties have agreed to work together to give effect to Collective Bargaining Rights in terms of Applicable Labour Legislations and International Labour Conventions.

Sanderson said the signing of this agreement signals a new beginning for SANParks and the two unions as it is the first time in history the two unions are meeting jointly with SANParks; contrary to the past two years during which there was no collective bargaining. “This means going forward salary negotiations and any issue of mutual interest to all parties will be tabled at this forum,” said Sanderson.

He also said this form of participation between the organization and the unions is a necessary intervention that will provide methods by which disputes between the parties will be settled. “The advantage is any settlement reached will be through dialogue and consensus rather than through conflict and confrontation,” concluded Sanderson.

SANParks respects and acknowledges a right of freedom association for all its employees.

For other media statements please go to www.sanparks.org

Issued by:
South African National Parks (SANParks)

Media enquiries:
Reynold "Rey" Thakhuli – GM: Media Liaison & Stakeholder Relations, SANParks, Tel: (012) 426 5203, cell: 073 373 4999, e-mail: rey.thakhuli@sanparks.org