By Katleho Sekhotho
Health minister Dr Joe Phaahla says there are reports of deaths that can be attributed to NEHAWU strike.
Health Minister Joe Phaahla says a preliminary report indicates that four people have died across the country due to the current strike by NEHAWU.
On Wednesday, Nehawu continued its strike for a third day, making it difficult for patients throughout South Africa to attend hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries.
“There has been an indication that up to a number of about four people are likely to have lost their lives in a manner that can be attributed directly to the strike.” says Health minister Dr Joe Phaahla.
Dr. Joe Phaahla, the minister of health, and Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, the MEC for health and wellness for Gauteng, visited the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital on Thursday along with other strike-affected medical institutions.
[WATCH] Striking #NEHAWU workers have prevented normal operations at hospitals and courts from continuing.
— Kaya 959 News (@KayaNews) March 9, 2023
Minister Joe Phaahla has visited Charlotte Maxeke and is set to visit Helen Joseph as well. pic.twitter.com/lQBU3JOauy
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The province secured a court interdict against (Nehawu) on Wednesday night at the Johannesburg labour court to prevent its members from impeding patient access to healthcare.
Thursday marked the fourth day of the strike, with Nehawu members demonstrating at nationwide medical facilities.
The Minister of @HealthZA, Dr Joe Phaahla together with Premier
— Gauteng Health (@GautengHealth) March 9, 2023
Panyaza @Lesufi and MEC @NkomoNomantu are this morning visiting @CharlotteMaxJAH gain first-hand experience of the level of disruptions which pose life-threat to health workers and vulnerable patients. pic.twitter.com/wQLH7pDi4A
As the walkout worsens, appointments are being cancelled and working staff members are being intimidated.
The government has proposed a 4.7% pay increase, but the disgruntled public employees demand a 10% pay rise.
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