Union declares dispute with Sappi
Paper company Sappi has failed to improve worker conditions and implement “satisfactory” training plans for its workers, the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers’ Union (Ceppwawu) said in a statement on Friday.
Ceppwawu said the training and development Sappi offered its workers were not in line with the Skills Development Act.
“Ceppwawu is deeply disappointed about the manner in which Sappi has been handling the issue of work skills for workers.
“Training and development is not linked to employment equity as required by the Skills Development Act ... There is no clear and coherent strategy in the implementation of Abet [Adult Basic Education Training] which is a national priority as per the national skills development strategy,” said union deputy general secretary Thabane Mdlalose.
Until Sappi addressed these issues, the union would not sign the workplace skills plan (WSP) for 2009/10, he said.
“Currently, we are having a dispute with Sappi regarding the signing of the WSP.
“However, what we have seen is contrary to our expectations and yet the company continues to claim millions of its mandatory and discretionary grants from the Seta,” Mdlalose said.
Sappi could not be reached for comment.—Sapa
