Gauteng E-tolling protests continues

E-tolling... should be condemned as it represents yet another tax on all the citizens of this country," PSA deputy general manager Manie de Clercq said in a letter to the Congress of SA Trade Unions.

"The rationale for [the] e-tolling system is unclear in that all motorists are paying a fuel levy which can be efficiently utilised in upgrading and maintaining our public roads."

De Clercq said trade unions were "important vehicles" in improving the socio-economic status of their members through opposition to labour brokers.

"A united voice should speak out against labour broking, which violates workers' right to dignity."

Cosatu's protest is scheduled to take place on Wednesday.

Cosatu's Gauteng secretary Dumisani Dakile said on Monday that workers could not be dismissed for taking part in the protest.

"The strike is protected... and we have complied with the legal requirements," he said.

"We are even calling on employers to join the march and not threaten workers."

Cosatu expected at least 100 000 people to take part in 32 marches across the country. The major event would take place in Johannesburg's central business district.

Tolling of 185km of the N1, N3, N12 and R21 around Johannesburg and Tshwane is expected to start on April 30.

Motorcycles with e-tags will pay 20c/km and those without 38c. Light motor vehicles will pay 30c and 58c respectively, and non-articulated trucks 75c and R1.45.

Cosatu expected its provincial bodies, essential services workers, Eskom workers, teachers, pupils, and other unions to join the strike.

Source : timeslive.co.za
Tags : Gauteng, e-toll, e tolling , e-tolling protests , Cosatu, public service