The South African Revenue Service (SARS) on Tuesday warned the “no work, no pay” rule will apply to those employees that are participating in the strike to press for higher wage hikes.
SARS said “it wishes to confirm” that the Public Servants Association of SA (PSA) and the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) members have embarked on industrial action.
“The resumption of strike follows its temporary suspension by the PSA in May, and union leadership has indicated that they intend to remain on strike until SARS improves its wage offer,” said SARS in a statement released in the afternoon.
“The dispute arose because of trade unions’ rejection of the available R70 million for baseline increases for bargaining unit employees.”
SARS said it has communicated that it does not decide on its own funding, but is dependent on an annual allocation made through a process managed by the National Treasury.
“The demand of labour of CPI plus 7% is simply unaffordable until the SARS receives further funding,” said the statement.
“SARS remains empathetic to financial challenges caused by increasing food and fuel prices as well as other essential services. These conditions affect the majority of South Africans including SARS employees.”
SARS said it will always respect the constitutionally protected right of workers to strike within the strict provisions of the law, while at the same time taking the necessary steps to fulfil its legal mandate and serve taxpayers and traders.
SARS can report that the first day of industrial action has seen minimal disruption to its services.
“While some of its branches had to close down due to the absence of workers, overall taxpayers have continued to interact with the organisation through the wide range of online services,” said the statement.
SARS said it has rescheduled most of the appointments made before the industrial action started.
“SARS has furthermore put business continuity plans and other contingencies to continue to deliver essential services to taxpayers,” said the statement.
“We urge the public to utilise our website for further updates on how to engage with SARS to fulfill their required obligations.
“Taxpayers are encouraged to avoid coming to a SARS office.”
