Labour relations in agriculture have unique demands

This was the message by Anton Rabe, chairperson of Agri South Africa's Labour Committee, following an Agri SA workshop on job creation.

"Labour relations in agriculture are unique given the geographical location and circumstances on farms where employers and employees share a work and residential environment and where employers are expected to provide housing, transport and recreational facilities, among other things. These obligations not only have cost implications but also place a considerable burden on the farmer in terms of statutory and other obligations," said Rabe.

Focus on empowerment

Agri SA hosted the workshop to discuss what was needed to promote job creation in agriculture and to counteract job losses. In this regard consideration was given to the policy and work environment that can contribute to a happy and productive workforce. Specific attention was given to aspects such as empowerment, training and various related initiatives and obligations to improve the social environment of farm workers, as well as action plans for implementation on the farm, within districts, and at provincial and national level.

Agri SA and its affiliates once again adopted a firm stance against any employer who fails to adhere to labour legislation and undertook to introduce processes and structures, in conjunction with other social partners, to proactively address problems within the sector. "In exceptional cases where employers intentionally ignore legislation, the law should take its course. Agri SA and its affiliates cannot and will not defend these people," said Rabe.

Provident fund for workers

Retirement planning for farm workers was also discussed and Agri SA agreed that employers should be encouraged to allow their workers to join existing provident funds which have already been created specifically for workers in agriculture.

"It was encouraging to hear during such an occasion of the many instances where farmers and their wives run projects to promote the welfare of workers and their dependents. The time has come for these examples to enjoy wider publicity and to shift the focus away from negative incidents," said Rabe.