The FF Plus welcomes the report by the Auditor-General (AG) which proves that there are various problems with the temporary relief fund (TERS), which falls under the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and was implemented alongside the national state of disaster and lockdown.
Ever since the fund was implemented, the FF Plus pointed out to the Department that there are irregularities in the administration of the fund and the party also repeatedly asked questions about the functioning of the system, specifically with regard to the severe delays in payments.
The Minister of Labour, Mr Thulas Nxesi, laid the blame for the irregularities and payment delays at the door of the private sector employers.
However, it is important to note that the AG's report has compelled the Minister to take action and consequently, the commissioner, the chief financial officer, chief operational officer as well as the head of supply chain management have all been temporarily suspended.
Although such consequences for the poor management and mismanagement of public funds are indeed necessary and welcomed, it does raise concerns about further delays in payments to TERS-fund beneficiaries, some of whom have not received a single payment since April.
Another general problem in the public service is the slow progress with disciplinary action. It often happens that officials are suspended and then months, or even years, go by as they remain suspended while receiving full pay and the disciplinary processes are not finalised.
It is of the utmost importance that disciplinary steps are finalised speedily and within the framework of the relevant legislation, especially in cases that relate to public funds so that the suspended official can either be found guilty and be punished or so that the official's honour can be restored.
Effective solutions for the problems with claims and pay-outs by the UIF are what is needed now. Exposing and addressing irregularities is all good and well, but the employees who have suffered income losses must receive pay-outs as soon as possible, particularly those who are still waiting for payments that should have been made in April and May.
Ordinary UIF-payments for, among other things, maternity leave and retrenchments are also delayed and may not be overlooked. The general administration, claim processing and responses to queries lodged with the fund must be prioritised and improved.
Contact details: 072 997 8315
