Durban strikes cost eThekwini millions

Mchunu addressed the media earlier on the strikes that brought the Durban CBD to a standstill this week.

Workers are unhappy over a re-grading process that was allegedly afforded to MK Vets.

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Mchunu says damages come in at an estimated R3.5-million, but does not include the impact on the local economy, the cost of having to hire privately water tankers to service areas where reservoirs and valves have been tampered with.

He says water has been restored to 90 percent of affected areas.

The task team appointed to probe the hiring process has been engaging with unions. The Premier says the strike has also affected eThekwini's reputation.

"A court order has been obtained, declaring that the strike in a non-protected strike. Workers and their unions have been interdicted from participating in the strike."

"Any violation of the court order will lead to contempt of court proceedings, including criminal sanctions, civil liability and disciplinary action," warned Mchunu.

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Workers are being urged to return to their posts.

"We have called for consequence management on how the decisions that led to this crisis were implemented. We will also ensure that the unions and their members are held accountable and liable for all the damages that have been caused to municipal infrastructure and property."

"Stakeholders must put the interests of all citizens first."