Strike Update: Health Services in the Western Cape

Today, one hundred and fifty seven (157) out of twenty eight thousand and sixty seven (28 067) employees zero point five percent (0.5%) of the Western Cape Department of Health were reported on strike. That is zero point two percent (0.2%) less than yesterday's zero point seven percent (0.7%). The full compliment of services could continue in the sense that there is enough staff to deliver services. However, service delivery has been affected because of picketing that is deterring patients from visiting health facilities.

Yesterday there were reports at the Khayelitsha Site B clinic of union members entering the grounds and intimidating staff members. As a result the South African Police Services (SAPS) is patrolling the facility and surrounds, and today there was a decrease in patient influx. There was little impact at other institutions where similar incidents took place.

Theuns Botha, Western Cape Minister of Health says: "I am very disappointed that union members are intimidating our staff members in their workplace. We are working closely with SAPS and monitoring the situation. I will be visiting some facilities tomorrow to ascertain the levels of service to our patients."