On 24 May 2022, SARS released a communication to employers detailing the current dispute regarding the 2022 wage negotiations process.
On 13 April 2022, the CCMA issued Picketing Rules that entitled the unions to serve SARS with 7-days formal notice of strike action. This official notice was received by SARS to address the anticipated commencement of industrial action on 12 May 2022. It is expected that SARS employees will embark on their strike action on 25 May 2022.
This strike may impact service delivery. However, SARS claims to have put the necessary contingencies in place as a precaution. These contingencies will be activated in the event that SARS and its unions have not managed to resolve the dispute and the unions decide to continue with their industrial action.
SARS states that they will endeavour to ensure that the systems and processes of businesses are fully operational and that they will continue to provide requisite services to all stakeholders as needed.
SARS have also stated that they will keep stakeholders updated via their digital communication channels.
The official notice from SARS is outlined below:
Dear Business Associations
SARS WAGE NEGOTIATIONS DISPUTE AND IMMINENT INDUSTRIAL ACTION
This letter serves to inform you that SARS and its recognised unions, i.e. National Education Health and Allied Workers Union (NEHAWU) and the Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA), is in dispute on its 2022 wage negotiations process.
The CCMA, on 13 April 2022, issued Picketing Rules, thereby entitling the unions to serve SARS with 7-days formal notice of strike action. SARS received such official notice of anticipated commencement of industrial action on 12 May 2022.
In terms of this notice, it is anticipated that SARS employees will be embarking on strike action on 25 May 2022.
This action may impact on our service delivery, however, SARS has proactively put necessary contingency measures in place, which will be activated in the event SARS and its unions have not managed to resolve the dispute and the unions proceed with their industrial action.
Notwithstanding, SARS’ will endeavour to ensure our systems and
processes are fully operational and will continue to provide requisite service to your taxpayer and traders as required.
We commit to keeping all stakeholders informed and will update our digital
communication channels on an ongoing basis.
Should you as Business be aware of challenges please feel free to engage
with my office.
Yours faithfully,
MARK KINGON
HEAD STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
24 May 2022
