UNTU wants PRASA take accountability for leaving staff, commuters without security
Hundreds of staff members at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) say they are relieved following the news that security guards will be redeployed to certain sites.
Private security companies made the decision this week saying that more than 2 000 guards will start reporting for duty again.
PRASA revoked their contracts weeks ago, leaving them without work.
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The board found that the security companies had been appointed irregularly.
On Tuesday, the Western Cape High Court ordered PRASA to reinstate the companies.
United National Transport Union (UNTU) spokesperson, Sonja Carstens says the decision by PRASA left workers and commuters without protection.
"We would like to see the board taking accountability for what has transpired over the past few weeks."
"These contracts were awarded irregularly. Why do you decide at a whim to terminate the contracts at the end of October, just before the festive season when there is always an increase in traffic on the railway line. That's just irresponsible," she said.
In KwaZulu-Natal, cases of armed people boarding trains, property being stolen and other crimes were reported at various stations over the past two weeks.
