10 February 2025
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) welcomes the announcement by the Department of Employment and Labour regarding the expansion of the labour inspectorate through the recruitment of 20,000 Inspector and Enforcement interns over the next two years. We recognise this as a positive step toward strengthening compliance with labour laws, particularly for vulnerable and low-skilled workers who are most at risk of exploitation and unfair labour practices.
However, FEDUSA remains concerned about the government’s increasing reliance on internship programmes to fill critical roles within the public service. While internships serve as a valuable tool for skills development and job exposure, they should not become a substitute for the permanent, adequately resourced workforce required to ensure sustained and effective labour law enforcement.
The ongoing use of interns to address systemic gaps risks creating an unstable and unsustainable inspectorate, potentially undermining the department’s long-term ability to safeguard workers’ rights.
As a key stakeholder in the labour sector, FEDUSA urges the Department of Employment and Labour to develop a long-term strategy for the inspectorate that includes a clear pathway for the absorption of skilled interns into permanent positions. Furthermore, we call for increased investment in training, resources, and capacity-building to ensure that inspectors are well-equipped to perform their duties effectively.
FEDUSA remains committed to working collaboratively with government in co-creating sustainable solutions that protect workers, promote compliance, and advance the interests of our members. We look forward to engaging with the department to ensure that this initiative translates into meaningful change for all South African workers.