Johannesburg - Cosatu has adopted a number of resolutions to improve the socio-economic conditions of workers, including demanding a wealth tax and that its affiliates procure local goods.
While the first day of Cosatu’s congress was the scene of intense debate over the election of leaders, yesterday workers on opposing sides spoke with one voice.
They agreed to all 32 socio-economic resolutions proposed in a discussion document, tweaking some and strengthening others.
They included that the wealth tax be urgently implemented, the amount of the national minimum wage does not get “outsourced” to an independent body, and that a procurement office of some kind be set up to ensure that affordable local goods are available for unions.
The Congress also backed a call by the SA Football Players Union (Safpu) that the bosses of soccer clubs be pressured to buy local and introduce a minimum wage.
“Boycott PSL games… if they don’t come to the party on a minimum wage,” a Safpu delegate said to rousing applause.
Other resolutions include a focus on employment equity and disabilities, youth unemployment, the banning of labour brokers and free education for all.
While delegates still want a comprehensive social-security plan for all, the minimum wage is viewed as one of the ways to help uplift the country’s working poor.
Minister of Labour Mildred Oliphant told the Congress that while the ANC had agreed that five years should be set aside to decide on the modalities for a minimum wage, the process was moving swiftly.
It is expected that it will be introduced next year.
LABOUR BUREAU
CAPE ARGUS