The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) has vowed to fight the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's (PRASA) planned retrenchment of 500 workers. PRASA initiated Section 189 consultations due to financial strain, but the union insists job cuts must be a last resort. The cuts are set to impact the Long-Distance Passenger Transport division most severely.
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has begun Section 189 consultations with the aim of retrenching over 500 workers, primarily from its Long-Distance Passenger Transport division, previously known as MLPS. The state-owned rail operator cited severe financial difficulties and struggles to meet obligations as the reason for the move.
SATAWU spokesperson Amanda Tshemese expressed strong opposition, stating that retrenchments should only be considered as an absolute last resort. "Over 500 workers are going to be affected at the Long Distance Passenger Division. We are opposing and rejecting the retrenchments," she said. Tshemese added that the union has been engaging with PRASA management, which claims financial strain but has not been transparent about the entity's finances. She urged management to develop a solid plan to avoid implementing Section 189.
The consultations mark another challenge for PRASA amid ongoing efforts to stabilize its operations. SATAWU maintains that alternatives to job losses must be explored first.
