THE government has invited transport operators to enter into fresh negotiations for a solution to end the on-going public transport stay-away.
news
Oct. 23, 2020
STAFF REPORTER
2 min read
Govt invites transport operators to fresh talks
The Minister of Communications, Science and Technology Chief Thesele 'Maseribane
Commuters who use public transport were on Wednesday and Thursday left stranded because there were no taxis, cabs or buses to transport them to their respective destinations.
The commuters, especially workers were forced to walk long distances to work.
The stay-away, which began on Wednesday has been planned to last until October 28.
On behalf of the government, the Minister of Communications, Science and Technology Chief Thesele Maseribane said in a statement that a Ministerial Sub Committee has been formed to lead negotiations with the unhappy transport operators.
The sub-committee he said comprises the Ministers of Law and Justice, Transport, Police and Public Safety, Small business, Public Works as well as Deputy Minister of Water.
Chief ’Maseribane appealed to the transport operators to allow this discussion, adding that the government has already suspended the disputed Mobile Court.
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He noted that some of the operators including bus owners were prepared to meet the government on Thursday, urging others to also come forward.
“It is vital to quickly respond to this issue as it might negatively affect the economy of the country,” he said, adding that the government is ready to listen to their grievances so that things could return to normal.
But if the stay-away persists, it will definitely have a devastating effect on the already ailing economy that has been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.