The Namibia Allied and Food Workers Union (Nafau) has urged meat companies affected by the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak to delay retrenching workers. Nafau deputy general secretary Willem Absalom stated that companies should give the restrictions more time before cutting jobs. According to Absalom, the FMD outbreak was only confirmed last month and companies should not rush to retrench workers.
Beefcor Meat Suppliers is considering retrenching 393 workers at its Okahandja abattoir due to the FMD outbreak and subsequent restrictions on slaughtering, livestock movement, and beef exports. The company informed employees last week that their jobs may be affected by the proposed retrenchments. A list attached to the notice shows that various positions, including slaughterers, cleaners, and supervisors, could be affected.
The FMD outbreak has significantly impacted Beefcor's operations, particularly its exports to the European Union (EU) market. This week, the EU suspended imports of some Namibian meat products due to the outbreak. As a result, Beefcor has lost export income while continuing to incur operating costs. The company is expected to meet with Nafau at the Okahandja abattoir to discuss the proposed retrenchments.
Nafau will oppose the retrenchments and explore ways to protect workers' jobs. Absalom stated that the union will engage with Beefcor to see if it's possible to avoid the retrenchments. He also noted that other companies in the meat industry are affected by the FMD restrictions but are waiting to see how the situation develops. Absalom suggested that companies should wait three months to assess the situation.
The Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations has also urged employers affected by the FMD outbreak to explore alternative ways to save jobs before resorting to retrenchments. Ministry spokesperson Maria Hedimbi stated that retrenchment should be considered only as a last resort. The ministry encourages affected employers to explore all possible alternatives in accordance with applicable labour laws.
The ministry is aware of the financial pressure the FMD outbreak has placed on affected businesses and the possible impact on jobs. Labour commissioner Kyllikki Sihlahla has received the notice of intention to retrench from Beefcor. When approached for further comment, Beefcor director Jaco Swanepoel declined to comment. The ministry will inform the public if it issues any directive on the matter.
Nafau and Beefcor are set to meet to discuss the proposed retrenchments. The union and the company will engage on possible solutions to avoid the retrenchments. The FMD outbreak has had a significant impact on the meat industry in Namibia, with various companies affected by the restrictions.
Key points
- Nafau urges Beefcor to delay retrenchments due to FMD outbreak
- Beefcor considers retrenching 393 workers at Okahandja abattoir
- Ministry urges employers to explore alternatives to retrenchments
