Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
MUTARE City Council is concerned with the welfare of its contract workers and efforts are underway to permanently employ a considerable number of them, The Manica Post has learnt.
This was revealed by the Town Clerk, Mr Blessing Chafesuka while responding to a question posed by Ward Two councillor, Councillor Gift Kadozvora during today’s Full Council Meeting at the Civic Centre.
Councillor Kadozvora said: “We truly appreciate efforts by council to cushion its contract workers as evidenced by their inclusion on bonus payments. However, we are wondering whether council has plans to rope them in as permanent employees since some of them now have four to six years serving as contract workers.”
Mayor, Councillor Simon Chabuka, said: “I am not really sure about the legal connotations of that status quo, but I understand there is a period stipulated wherein one can serve an organisation on contract basis and eventually deemed permanent.”
Mr Chafesuka weighed in: “While I might not have finner details off hand, this issue was once raised and a report must have been compiled to that effect. Yes, as council we are concerned about their welfare and a considerable number will surely be employed on permanent basis.”
As at June 30, the local authority had more than 800 contract workers serving in all departments.
More to follow …
