Zululand industrial action illegal: Municipality

On Monday, disgruntled workers in the water and sanitation division downed tools over pay. 

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The municipality's Khanyo Mpungose says the union is not recognised by the bargaining council.

"There are only two unions recognised by the bargaining council, so that is what is complicating the matter. The strike itself has been declared by the labour court as being unprotected and is therefore illegal."

Mpungose says the workers have been given an ultimatum to return to work or face disciplinary action.

But striking workers say it is up to their employer to bring an end to the strike.   

METUSA says negotiations for salary increases with the municipality began last month.   

Workers claim their counterparts in other district municipalities earn more.  

The union's Thulani Ngwenya has dismissed allegations that their members are to blame for taps running dry.

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He says there have been reports that some residents do not have water because of damaged pipes due to sabotage.

"Now that the workers are demanding what is rightfully theirs, unfortunately it is the community that is suffering. The community is suffering because of the arrogance of the municipality," he said.

"We are not aware of any [sabotage]. METUSA members are very disciplined."