We have dedicated many years of our lives working as part of the Working on Fire (WOF) programme under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). This initiative has provided many like us with employment opportunities,we have contributed significantly in preserving the environment at large. However, with TEFLA Group now taking over, WOF EPWP employees are facing an alarming situation.
For those unfamiliar, TEFLA Group has been awarded the contract that was previously held by Kishugu. A transition like this should ideally come with benefits or at the very least, retention of existing terms of the previous contract held by KISHUGU PTY LTD. However, this is not the case. TEFLA Group’s contract is dismissive of long-term employees stripping away crucial benefits that has been existing with the previous employer (i.e annual leaves , FRL has been reduced from 5 days to 3 days ).
Imagine dedicating over a decade to a cause and then finding your years of service diminished overnight because of contractual loopholes. It's not just unfair; it's a gross exploitation of labour rights. This affected countless participant who have been the backbone of the programme.
Statistically, the WOF EPWP has saved the South African government billions in fire damage prevention and has protected countless ecosystems. Our dedication deserves respect and fair treatment. Transitioning employees from Kishugu to TEFLA should not mean making them vulnerable to unjust contracts.
We urge DFFE and TEFLA Group and relevant authorities to reconsider the terms of the contract. Retain the benefits and rights of WOF EPWP employees as they transition to ensure no employee is worse off due to this new management contract. Implement measures that safeguard our annual leaves accrued , recognising our years of service and dedication.Do away with EPWP program and make us permanent employees,because the nature of work done by Fire fighters does not qualify to be regarded as EPWP considering the risk that they are exposed to in a line of duty.
This petition's goal is to urge the Department of Public Works, the Department of Environmental Affairs, and TEFLA Group itself to sit down with employee representatives and negotiate fair terms. Let us ensure that this transfer of management respects the rights and contributions of all employees involved.
Your support is crucial. Stand with us in demanding fair treatment and justice for dedicated employees. Sign this petition to prevent TEFLA Group from exploiting loyal WOF EPWP workers, ensuring transparency, accountability ,respect, and fairness in employment practices.