Calls for speedy resolution of labour disputes

President Jacob Zuma (Image: GCIS)

Addressing the South African Chamber of Commerce, Zuma said the country has a progressive labour relations framework enshrined in both the Constitution and the labour laws.

"Our message to employers and labour is that with the advantage of such a legal framework, they should conclude labour negotiations and disputes speedily. We urge those sectors with disputes that have not yet been resolved to attend to them speedily so that the economy can return to full production," Zuma said.

He said the recent strikes and labour unrest had caused concern among investors. The strike in the motor industry has resulted in the country losing out on a significant contract by the German motor manufacturer BMW SA, to build a new BMW model here.

"The company had frozen its local expansion plans because of strikes in the automotive sector," he said.

Zuma told delegates that government had intervened in the mining sector over the past nine months to help stabilise it.

"We have worked closely with business and labour to ensure a more rapid and peaceful resolution of labour disputes, while at the same time improved the operational and policy environment in the mining sector. We appreciate the co-operation of business and labour in the mining intervention programme," he said.

Zuma said that the country was facing many challenges, but government was on course to providing a better life for all and dealing with its challenges.

"We should continue working together to build the economy and the country. This cannot be the responsibility of government alone," he added.

Zuma used the platform to call on South African business to take advantage and make investments in the continent, especially in infrastructure projects and he applauded companies that put something back into communities from where they draw their labour.