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2011-06-23: EMS members should use open communication channels, says MMC Mfikoe

THE Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Safety, Clr Matshidiso Mfikoe, says her door is open to employees from the City's Emergency Services (EMS) who want to discuss issues relating to working conditions.

MMC Mfikoe said together with the acting head of EMS, Lazarus Tshepo Makola met with staff members on Wednesday (22 June) to share information about the progress being made on various concerns of the personnel including the process on the disciplinary steps taken against the EMS head, Dr Audrey Gule.

"Among other things, we appealed for patience and understanding while issues affecting employees are addressed in a structured manner. We also said it was important to put all efforts to service delivery rather than misdirect energy to media publicity at the expense of valid employee forums. Employees with grievances which management was not giving proper attention were invited to approach my office directly.

"It was emphasised that the city has officially appointed communicators to deal with the media and it is in the best interest of the organisation for all its operations to be  dealt with in a structured manner," added MMC Mfikoe.

"The city has established channels of communication and labour issues are also attended by the labour relations department. EMS is an organisation that requires discipline and team work from all its members – and cannot be encouraged to operate outside of the existing code of conduct and relevant structures.

MMC Mfikoe says it is well known to all EMS employees that the issues raised about Dr Gule and the work environment are receiving attention at the highest level in the City.

"The City Manager has already made announcements about new uniforms and tenders issued to procure essential equipment."

"My door is open to employees who want to raise legitimate concerns. But those who continue to deliberately bypass the existing channels must feel free to leave the service," she says.

MMC Mfikoe says she emphasised the approach of Johannesburg's Executive Mayor, Clr Mpho Parks Tau,that every employee – from senior management through to all staff members – must perform the duties they are employed to do.

The City regards EMS as a key priority in its service delivery to residents of Johannesburg. In December 2009 the city introduced 10 modern new ambulances to its fleet and it is continuously looking at opportunities to improve the quality of its services and equipment.

 

Issued on behalf of the Community Safety MMC Matshidiso Mfikoe by:
Gabu Tugwana
Communication Director
Public Liaison Department
City of Johannesburg
Tel: 011 407 7162
Cell: 082 495 5673​