Monday, May 30, 2011

SABC says looming staff reduction is a promise made to get government loan guarantee; dr. Ben Ngubane says SABC's staffing level ''bloated''.


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The SABC that wants to shrink its workforce to 3 000 by 2014 and plans to get rid of 700 workers over the next two to three years says the staff reduction was a promise made to the government in return for the loan guarantee of R1,4 billion to help save the public broadcaster from bankruptcy.

The SABC is planning to get rid of 1 out of every 5 workers and told parliament that the personnel reduction at the broadcaster was a condition of the government grant. Dr. Ben Ngubane, SABC chairperson told parliament's portfolio committee on communications that the SABC ''had to be restructured in order to improve competitiveness and efficiency.''

Dr. Ben Ngubane called the SABC's staffing level ''bloated'' and said that it was decided not to extend or renew any employment contracts when they've expired. He said vacant positions are advertised, allowing anyone to apply for the position.

ALSO READ: South African public broadcaster plans to get rid of 700 workers.