Human Interest
Vavi urges actors not to rush to replace Generations 16─── 15:17 Mon, 15 Sep 2014
Johannesburg - Actors thinking of replacing the 16 who were fired from local soapie Generations should not consider it, Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi said on Monday.
"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."
"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.
Patrick Shai, one of the 16, said the strike was not only about wage disputes with Generations, but about 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."
The actors were fired on August 18 for going on strike in a pay dispute.
Vavi said the Congress of SA Trade Unions (Cosatu) and the Creative Workers Union of SA had agreed to campaign for the actors' demands.
These demands included a reduction to 10 working hours a day, social benefits, an end to inconsistencies in remuneration, payment of royalties by the SABC, and better working conditions.
Sapa
