THE disintegration of Cosatu is an incredible story that is certainly a portent of things to come (Fawu to leave Cosatu when congress gives green light, July 20).
An implosion of the largest trade union umbrella body has resulted in a complete restructuring of the labour environment in SA. We are noticing a rise in the activity and membership of small independent unions. Greater competition among the unions will start to threaten the viability of many of the larger unions in due course.
Like any other business, unions rely on income to survive. The income is the membership fees, and when their members leave to join smaller independent unions, the larger unions are no longer effective and viable.
The fight for membership will be fought out at the workplace, where a strike is often the first port of call. Many unions believe a strike declaration attracts members. The heightened union activity creates a negative investment perception for business.
Michael Bagraim
DA labour spokesman
Union members during a protest in Johannesburg. Fawu is poised to split with Cosatu, sources say. Picture: REUTERS/SIPHIWE SIBEKO
THE disintegration of Cosatu is an incredible story that is certainly a portent of things to come (Fawu to leave Cosatu when congress gives green light, July 20).
An implosion of the largest trade union umbrella body has resulted in a complete restructuring of the labour environment in SA. We are noticing a rise in the activity and membership of small independent unions. Greater competition among the unions will start to threaten the viability of many of the larger unions in due course.
Like any other business, unions rely on income to survive. The income is the membership fees, and when their members leave to join smaller independent unions, the larger unions are no longer effective and viable.
The fight for membership will be fought out at the workplace, where a strike is often the first port of call. Many unions believe a strike declaration attracts members. The heightened union activity creates a negative investment perception for business.
Michael Bagraim
DA labour spokesman
