MESSAGE FROM THE OVERALL GOVERNMENT CONVENOR - SIPHO PITYANA

Government's success in effecting a new labour market dispensation has been underpinned by our success in building social partnership. Despite divergent views on labour market policies, we have succeeded, through an ongoing process of consultation and negotiations with our social partners, in reaching substantial national consensus on a wide range of legislation and other measures. This in itself is a notable achievement. In this regard, Nedlac has played, and will continue to play, a critical role.

While this has often been a protracted process, we believe that this has enhanced the quality of our young democracy. It has meant that, unlike the unpopular apartheid laws, our new laws enjoy widespread legitimacy. This in turn lays the basis for the successful implementation of these laws by key stakeholders.

There is a need therefore, for us to build on the impressive achievements of Nedlac and move from social dialogue to social partnership. The process of preparation towards the Presidential Jobs Summit and the implementation of the agreements/projects set out in the Jobs Summit Declaration affords us the kinds of opportunities for social partnership - these opportunities should be explored and pursued.

Progress has also been made from adversarialism to co-operation as demonstrated through the use of Section 77 of the LRA procedures. Various socio-economic protests arising from several sectors, including Education, Local Government and Justice were averted using these provisions of the Act. In this regard therefore, the dispute resolution role of Nedlac should be enhanced.

Clear protocols to improve co-operation and coordination with other institutions, including Nedlac's relationship with Parliament are necessary.

In conclusion, we need to review and improve the administrative functioning and management of the institution in order for it to meet the challenge in the next five years.