Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of a trade union?
What is the primary function of a trade union?
- To negotiate with employers on behalf of employees (correct)
- To organize leisure activities for members
- To independently represent employees in court
- To manage the company’s resources
It is compulsory for all trade unions in South Africa to be registered with the Department of Labour.
It is compulsory for all trade unions in South Africa to be registered with the Department of Labour.
False (B)
What are the two rights guaranteed to employees by the South African Constitution regarding trade unions?
What are the two rights guaranteed to employees by the South African Constitution regarding trade unions?
Freedom of association and the right to engage in industrial action.
Trade unions aim to enhance their members' __________ power during negotiations.
Trade unions aim to enhance their members' __________ power during negotiations.
Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of trade unions?
Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of trade unions?
Match the trade union organizations with their abbreviations:
Match the trade union organizations with their abbreviations:
Trade unions provide advice on safety in the physical work environment.
Trade unions provide advice on safety in the physical work environment.
Name one of the three largest trade union organizations in South Africa.
Name one of the three largest trade union organizations in South Africa.
What is the role of a Shop Steward within a trade union?
What is the role of a Shop Steward within a trade union?
All employees are allowed to participate in strike action regardless of their work position.
All employees are allowed to participate in strike action regardless of their work position.
Name one type of industrial action that trade unions may organize.
Name one type of industrial action that trade unions may organize.
Membership fees must be deducted from the employee’s salaries by the __________.
Membership fees must be deducted from the employee’s salaries by the __________.
Which of the following is NOT an essential service as described?
Which of the following is NOT an essential service as described?
Match the following industrial actions with their descriptions:
Match the following industrial actions with their descriptions:
Only registered trade unions may organize picketing.
Only registered trade unions may organize picketing.
What is the aim of NEDLAC in relation to labor policies?
What is the aim of NEDLAC in relation to labor policies?
Study Notes
Trade Unions in South Africa
- Trade Unions are groups of workers organized to negotiate with employers through collective bargaining
- The South African Constitution protects the right of workers to join Trade Unions and participate in their activities
- Key rights granted by the Constitution are freedom of association and the right to engage in industrial action like strikes and protests
- Trade Unions in South Africa do not need to be registered but there are conditions to be met for registration with the Department of Labour
Major Trade Union Organizations
- COSATU (Congress of South African Trade Unions)
- FEDUSA (Federation of Unions of South Africa)
- NACTU (National Council of Trade Unions)
Role and Responsibilities of Trade Unions
- Representing members during collective bargaining with employers
- Protecting employee rights during collective bargaining to ensure fair treatment
- Representing members in negotiations with employers on issues such as salaries, benefits, safety in the workplace, working conditions, working hours, and job security
- Representing members during disciplinary procedures
- Providing advice on labour relations matters
Trade Union Rights
- Registered trade unions have the right to consult with employees in the workplace
- Trade union meetings and communications with members cannot be prohibited
- Membership fees can be deducted from employee salaries by the employer and paid to the Trade Union
- If 60% or more employees in a business belong to a Trade Union, a Shop Steward (employee representative) can be appointed
The Impact of Trade Unions on Businesses
- If Trade Unions and businesses cannot agree on issues, Trade Unions can organize Industrial Action
- Industrial Action includes strikes, go-slows, and picketing
- Only registered Trade Unions are allowed to organize pickets
Essential Services and Strike Action
- The South African Constitution prohibits strike action for employees performing essential services
- Essential services include the South African Police Service, doctors and nurses (healthcare), and members of parliament
Trade Unions and NEDLAC
- NEDLAC (National Economic, Development and Labour Council) is a forum for government, Trade Unions (organized labour), and employers to reach consensus on labour policy changes
- NEDLAC helps build relationships between employers, Trade Unions, the government, and the community
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Description
Explore the role, rights, and major organizations of trade unions in South Africa. This quiz covers essential topics such as collective bargaining, constitutional rights, and the responsibilities of trade unions. Test your knowledge on how these unions operate within the legal framework of South Africa.
