MAKHADO – The President of the National Congress Union of Farm Workers, Mr Daniel Rambau, said that in some parts of the Far North, employers are not working with their employees according the the law.

According to Rambau, it is stated in the law that farm workers must receive minimum wages. He said that some farm workers in Levubu, Dendron, BelaBela, Tzaneen and Musina are still earning R300 per month, instead of R650 as required by the new law.

He further stipulated that some farmers are employing illegal immigrants from Zimbabwe and Mozambique, which his Union totally opposes. "Those who are against the law told us that if they increase the workers' wages, they would retrench some farm workers and we don't intend to see workers losing their jobs," he said. According to the new law, the farmer may only deduct money if the farm worker agrees.

Agreed deductions could be savings, provident and related funds, repayment of a loan to a financial institution and trade union subscriptions, but Rambau said employers are deducting more than 20% for transport and electricity fees. Accommodation or food provided by the farmer may be given as a part of payment, provided it is at the cost of the farmer and a condition of employment. It may not be more than 20% of the total monthly wage. In conclusion, Rambau said that farm workers will hold a meeting at the Dendron taxi rank on October 18.