Cape Town – The Chairperson of Parliament’s Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade, Sonja Boshoff, has urged the Department of Employment and Labour to ensure that any planned review of South Africa’s labour legislation is clear in its objectives and focused on fostering economic growth and job creation.
Addressing the department during a presentation of its strategic and annual performance plans on Wednesday, Boshoff stressed that the legislative overhaul must reflect the country’s ongoing economic stagnation and persistent unemployment crisis.
The department informed the committee that it has begun a process — already under consideration at Cabinet level — to amend around six labour-related laws.
“Any review or future amendment to labour legislation must be practical and responsive to the realities faced by small players in the economy,” Boshoff said.
“Legislation must serve as an enabler for job creation and economic growth.”
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She warned against bureaucratic obstacles and the continued reliance on race-based policy, calling instead for a shift toward broader inclusivity.
“We should be preoccupied with reducing red tape and moving away from race-based policy positions. This is not to suggest that the economic empowerment of the previously disadvantaged should be abandoned, but we must rethink our priorities,” she said.
Boshoff emphasised that marginalised and emerging market participants should be prioritised in the legislative review.
“It is ironic that labour legislation — meant to promote employment — is at times a barrier to job creation. We still owe it to South Africans to empower both job seekers and potential employers alike.”
She reiterated the committee’s commitment to advocating for business-friendly conditions that enhance participation and unlock economic opportunity for all, especially those without political connections.
The Department of Employment and Labour is expected to continue engaging with stakeholders as the legislative review process unfolds.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
