Chairperson of the portfolio committee on police, Ian Cameron, says it is outrageous that Parliament’s cleaners will soon earn more than police officers.
Earlier this week, Parliament confirmed that some of the lowest-paid workers, including cleaners and those in the catering services, will receive a 100% salary hike over three years. By 2026, their salary will increase from the current R170 000 per annum to R350 000.
PARLIAMENT CLEANERS TO EARN MORE THAN POLICE OFFICERS
National Education, Health and Allied Workers (Nehawu) chairperson Sthembiso Tembe told SABC that the decision is a victory for workers.
Tembe said it’s a victory for the union to ensure they improve workers’ employment conditions.
“So, we are happy about the decision. However, we also understand that as much as we would have wanted this decision to be implemented immediately without waiting for 2026, we understand that the institution is facing serious financial constraints. Hence, we are going to wait, and we have accepted the progressive implementation of this decision,” he said.
Following Parliament’s confirmation, Democratic Alliance (DA) member of Parliament and chairperson of the portfolio committee on police Ian Cameron questioned the decision.
“No offence to the cleaning staff, but surely we need to look after our cops. Imagine being a sergeant for over 10 years (some much longer) despite excellent performance. You witnessed promotions of politically connected people over the years, and now you hear this news. These are the changes we are fighting for. We must speak on behalf of the cops who don’t get a fair opportunity to do so,” he posted on X.
HOW MUCH DO POLICE OFFICERS EARN?
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) annual report for the 2022-2023 financial year, 179 502 members earn an average salary of R37 500 per month.
The 179 502 officers include active police officers and administrative staff:
- 20,547 commissioned officers;
- 123,896 non-commissioned officers;
- 34,226 Public Service Act employees.
Salaries in the lowest skill level (1-2) are R299 000 per annum, while the average salary rises to R1 431 000 annually at the senior management and executive employee level (13-16).
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT PARLIAMWENT CLEANERS EARNING MORE THAN POLICE OFFICERS?
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