Hon Speaker, the ID strongly condemns the pathetic and reckless behaviour of municipal workers embarking on strike action in Adderley Street a few hours ago. It is unacceptable that private and public property is being destroyed and damaged by strikers.
The ID calls on the South African Municipal Workers' Union, SAMWU, and its affiliates to condemn all forms of public violence and destruction and take strong action against those responsible.
Furthermore, SAMWU should take full responsibility for their members and should be held liable for the unruly strikers' actions. It is really sad and shocking that poor street vendors have lost everything that they have worked for. Striking workers went on a rampage, looting the stalls of street vendors in scenes reminiscent of the recent looting on the streets of London.
What kind of society are we building for our children when such unruly behaviour is allowed without any repercussions? It is unfortunate that a handful of unruly strikers give all protestors a bad name.
In closing, the ID encourages all those who suffered damage and loss as a result of the disorderly strike action to sue the responsible union for damages.