Staff Reporter
Johannesburg – Gauteng’s Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system challenges in the City of Joburg’s operating company, Piotrans are far from over.
Another letter stating that employees would face consequences in case they down tools was sent to the staff on Tuesday afternoon where Piotrans with a threatening tone stated that the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council (SARBAC) was silent on the late payment of salaries, noting that the Friday promise could not be fulfilled due to its financial crisis.
“Therefore we revert back to the basic conditions of employment which stated that an employer must pay remuneration not later than seven days after the completion of the period of which remuneration is payable. It was communicated that the salaries will be paid at the latest by Friday, 3 March 2023.
Therefore we have no choice but to follow procedures according to the Labour Relations Act. A dispute by employees cannot be lodged before seven days has lapsed.
Take note that the principal of “no work no pay’ will be followed,” reads the letter stating that those who will refuse to work will suffer consequences.
Earlier on Tuesday morning, Rea Vaya’s bus operator had issued a letter to the staff stating that they will be paid on Friday, but seen that there would be a huge mountain to climb to fulfil the promise, Piotrans resorted in threatening the staff with the no work, no pay method.
After Step Up SA News report on Monday, Piotrans issued another letter to the staff that they would have to wait a little longer to get paid their salaries.
This is despite assurances from the chairperson of the financially troubled Piotrans, Nomazotsho Memani that the matter of delayed salaries was getting necessary attention it deserves.
In the letter we have seen, Piotrans said, “Piotrans would like to indicate that all employees will receive their delayed salaries on Friday, 3rd March 2023. Parallel to all other processes highlighted with regards to compliance and related matters that are taking place, we are required to exercise tolerance as the processes are unfolding. Management is committed to promptly resolve this matter and will continuously keep you updated with all developments,” reads the letter.
On Tuesday, commuters were still forced to seek alternative transport to get to work due to the failure of Piotrans to ferry them.
Many commuters have taken their frustrations to social media, stating that they have been taken for a ride by Rea Vaya.
Rizhani Mazabala said, “Re Vaya and Eskom same WhatsApp group.”
Ngwenya Platjie Philemon said, “the sad part is that they don’t even inform commuters when they go on strike.”
Walter Marime, “We don’t have to allow them to treat us the way they like and we must stand up against this. Rea Vaya didn’t meet with the angry commuters.”
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