WESTERN CAPE EDUCATION MEC Cameron Dugmore has expressed concern about the possible disruption of schools during Cosatu's planned protest action this week.

COSATU has informed the provincial government that it has called for a protest action on Thursday 18 May 2006, to support its "Jobs and Poverty" campaign.

The protest action will involve COSATU members in the Public and Services Sector. These include four unions involved in education, namely SADTU, NEHAWU, PAWUSA and DENOSA.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) will follow standard procedures on industrial action that may result in staff being absent from work. The department has circulated these procedures to schools, colleges and the WCED administration.

In line with procedure, supervisors must take reasonable steps to ensure that their areas of responsibility continue to function.

The WCED will apply the principle of "no work, no pay", in line with agreed procedure. The department will not grant leave to staff for the purpose of the stay away, and will monitor staff absenteeism on the day.

The WCED’s The Directorate: Labour Relations will have officials on duty to provide advice or assistance during the period concerned.

Said Education MEC Cameron Dugmore: "I am very concerned with the possible disruption of schools. We are all aware of the need for us to provide our learners with relevant skills and knowledge, which is critical to address the very concerns of Cosatu’s protest actions."

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi:  082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.