To: All media
Attention: Transport Journalists and Editors
20 February 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PUTCO DISMISSES BASELESS NUMSA ALLEGATIONS
Putco has noted the ongoing NUMSA smear campaign in the media. The Union claims the Company is mistreating suspended employees, currently undergoing a Section 188A CCMAinquiry. Putco condemns these allegations with the contempt it deserves.
Unlawful withholding of bonuses and salary increases from 2020
Numsa claims Putco was unduly withholding bonuses, salary, and wage increases from 2020.Putco applied for an exemption from the 6% salary increase and bonuses for 2020 due to the financial impact of COVID-19. When the September 2022 strike started, the matter was already before the Labour Court. On 13 September 2022, Putco and the unions, including NUMSA, resolved to end the strike through a Section 150 CCMA Settlement Agreement. To
date, all employees have received increases and bonuses due to them.
Amending suspension conditions unfairly
Numsa says Putco declared war on suspended employees by amending their suspension terms, requiring them to report to Putco premises without performing any duties. Putco reviewed suspension conditions due to several issues, including employees engaging in secondary employment and not attending disciplinary hearings. This decision is within the
company’s rights, and instead of exploring available grievance resolution processes, NUMSA
has turned to public theatrics.
Inhumane treatment of suspended workers
NUMSA further alleges that the company forces workers to sit in “cages” referred to as “prison” depots from reporting time until knock-off time. This allegation is devoid of the truth. The areas accommodating suspended employees are
large enough and suitable for them to remain indoors or outdoors as they may prefer. The only prohibition is that they may not enter areas where other employees are actively working to avoid disruption or interference with the Company’s operations. Proper ablution facilities are available and cleaned daily.
Withholding salaries of suspended workers with medical certificates
Numsa states that Putco is withholding the payment of suspended employees even when they submit medical certificates.
Putco observed an increasing pattern of suspended employees presenting medical certificates covering extended periods and initiated an investigation into the validity of these certificates. The Company uncovered fraudulent certificates submitted by suspended employees and a syndicate practitioner who issues medical certificates without examining
patients for a set fee. Putco implemented a medical certificate verification process for suspended workers, requiring submission of an affidavit alongside sick notes. Those who have completed the process will be paid in full.
Unfair targeting of Numsa shop stewards
Numsa contends that the company is unfairly targeting its representatives. There are certain Numsa representatives who are undergoing disciplinary processes which are in line with applicable legislation. Employees who deem the process to be unfair have the right to explore internal appeal procedures as well as external dispute resolution mechanisms
available through SARPBAC, CCMA, and the Labour Court.
Unlawful deductions from employee salaries
Furthermore, NUMSA claims the company deducted money from suspended workers in December 2023. In December 2023, the company paid all its employee salaries in advance. Where the suspended employees were absent without authorization or approved sick leave, the correction was made in the January 2024 payroll. Numsa has referred this matter to the CCMA, and it is currently before the Commission through the Section 73 inquiry. Putco appeals to NUMSA to desist from incitement that places the jobs of employees outside of this process at risk. We also call upon the union to consider the more than 250,000 passengers who depend on our service daily. The union will held liable for any action leading to damage to property or assets of the company due to these reckless utterances.
End
For more inquiries, please contact:
Lindokuhle Xulu, Media Liaison Manager
063 693 1327
www.putco.co.za