Department Of Correctional Services Housing Policy
Department Of Correctional Services Housing Policy
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES (DCS)
Housing policy
• The DCS unilaterally approved and implemented a new Housing Policy in December 2009.
• This new policy seeks to regulate the utilisation of Official Housing and Official Rental accommodation by identifying certain categories of employees who are entitled to official accommodation and excluding other employees from utilising this facility.
• The previous policy on housing included a delegation of powers and subsequent discretion to the National Commissioner in the allocation of Official Housing to Correctional Officials. All Correctional Services employees, who were appointed in terms of the Correctional Services Act, were entitled to be considered for utilizing official accommodation without any category of employees being excluded.
• The DCS contends that one of the major motivations for the implementation of this new policy is to effect cost savings. The PSA, however, cannot comprehend how the proposed movement of personnel in and out of official housing could generate any saving of costs.
• During discussions with the DCS on this matter, the PSA raised its concerns regarding the unilateral implementation of this policy, as well as the financial impact that these changes will have on hundreds of Correctional Officials who are still trying to recover from the financial hardships caused by the implementation of the OSD for Correctional Officials during 2009.
• The DCS did, however, agree to further engagements on this policy, as well as to suspend any imminent eviction of employees from Official Housing or Rental Accommodation.
• The DCS, however, refuses to formally withdraw the policy and to negotiate a new policy with labour. Further engagements on the matter will continue in the Departmental Bargaining Chamber.
• Members will be kept informed of developments.