The abuse and disrespect that some of South Africa's 1.2-million domestic workers endure goes largely unchecked and unreported.
Domestic workers are on the verge of being covered by the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant said on Saturday.
“The [minister] said a number of public hearings were planned on the review of the laws, and appealed to domestic workers to participate,” said her spokesperson, Mokgadi Pela.
Oliphant addressed domestic workers during an imbizo in Soweto.
The Act was one of the motions undergoing a Parliamentary review.
Maternity benefits
The Unemployment Insurance Act, which included the extension of worker maternity benefits and the extension of the claim period, was also being reviewed.
She said benefits would apply to both South African domestic workers as well as legal foreign nationals working locally.
“Oliphant told the consultative forum that South Africa has 663 331 registered domestic workers, however this was a far cry from the number of domestic workers employed in the country,” said Pela.
“She challenged the department’s inspectorate to up its game and ensure that domestic workers are registered and afforded worker rights.” – Sapa