On 16 January, South African Labour Minister, Mildred Oliphant, published in government gazette No. 41382 that she proposes a 5.8% increase for monthly pensions payable according to the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act of 1993. The increase comes into effect on 1 April 2018.

The above notice is applicable to those entitled to monthly pension payouts due to occupation-related permanent injury or disablement (section 49 of the Act), or death (section 54 of the Act). The Minister of Labour increases monthly pensions payable in terms of sections 49 and 54 on recommendation of the Director-General, and the notice must be published at least 60 days before it comes into effect.

Section 57(1)(b) stipulates that such a notice typically invites “any person who wishes to comment on the proposed increase to submit such comment in writing to the commissioner within the period mentioned in the notice.” However, such a directive has not been published in this latest notice. Affected parties or those wishing to comment, may contact the Compensation Fund Commissioner, Vuyo Mafata, on 012 319 9495/012 319 9118 for clarity on the public comment procedures for the notice.

Mzoxolo Mpolase

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