JOHANNESBURG — THE 16 actors who were fired from the soapie Generations are prepared to return to work, they said on Monday.
“We are prepared to go back to work. Negotiations are still under way,” actor Patrick Shai told reporters in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
The actors were fired on August 18 for going on strike during a wage dispute.
On Monday, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) and the Creative Workers’ Union of SA (CWUSA) called on South African viewers not to watch the show, which is broadcast at 8pm, for the entire week in support of the actors’ demands.
These include a reduction to 10 working hours a day, the provision of social benefits, an end to inconsistencies in remuneration, payment of royalties, and better working conditions.
City Press online reported that in a letter drafted by the Generations Actors’ Guild, the actors had agreed to return to work.
According to City Press, the letter was sent by Bulelani Mzamo, who represents the actors, and details an agreement by them to return to work based on the acceptance of pay increases set in November 2013 and the issuing of three-year contracts.
This was after a meeting facilitated by SABC chief operating officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng and the actors, City Press reported.
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The letter reportedly reads: “Our clients are grateful that you agree to pay the rates agreed to in November 2013. They are also grateful that you agree to three-year contracts.
“In light of these developments, our clients immediately tender their services without any conditions.
“Should you agree to their unconditional tender of their services, you can directly contact them as to when they can resume work.”
On Monday, Shai, one of the 16, said the strike was not only about wage disputes with Generations, but about working conditions in the industry.
“This fight is for the benefit of every creative worker in this industry.
“It is to make sure each and every actor in this country . . . has contracts that offer you a sustainable life.”
He urged other actors to join the strike.
“It is about time we unite as a sector. This is an industry issue.”
He said the steps the group of actors had taken were necessary and would benefit the industry.
Earlier on Monday Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi urged actors thinking of replacing the 16 who were fired from the soapie not to consider it.
“Don’t cross the picket line. Don’t make yourself scab labour. Don’t add salt to the (wound),” he told reporters in Johannesburg.
“The reason Mfundi Vundla developed so much arrogance is because he knows he can (easily replace) actors.”
Vavi said actors thinking of auditioning for the roles should not allow themselves to be used. “This is your struggle. Think of all the actors in South Africa. Don’t be used by arrogant producing companies.”
He said the names of those who auditioned for the roles would be made public.
“We will picket where the cast (works). We will take it to their houses, shebeens,” he said.
Vavi said Cosatu and CWUSA had agreed to campaign for the actors’ demands.
— BDLIVE
