The Communication Workers’ Union (CWU) was ”flabbergasted” on Monday by the ”sluggishness” of the Johannesburg Labour Court in ruling on a dispute between Vodacom and CWU members.
”The matter which was scheduled for today’s date was not even placed on the court roll and the judge has requested for more time again,” CWU spokesperson Mfanafuthi Sithebe said.
The matter was postponed, for the third time, to May 14.
On March 12, Vodacom obtained an interim court order preventing workers belonging to the CWU from striking.
At a second hearing on March 19 the court wanted more time to consider arguments on both sides before making a final ruling.
The industrial action followed an unresolved dispute on the recognition of the CWU by Vodacom.
While the union argued for recognition, the company said earlier this month that the union would only be recognised when 30% of Vodacom employees joined it.
”We therefore appeal to the Minister of Labour, Membathisi Mdladlana, to ensure that labour courts serve the interests of all parties without causing any harm, because justice delayed is justice denied,” Sithebe said.
He said the workers would respect the interdict. — Sapa