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Johannesburg - The CCMA should be more closely involved in negotiations between employers and unions, the Federation of Unions of SA (Fedusa) said on Thursday.
"We must ensure that our collective bargaining processes are modernised and that the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) plays a more pro-active role," said Fedusa general secretary Dennis George.
The CCMA should get involved in the negotiating processes at an earlier stage and not only once parties had reached a deadlock.
This would help prevent violence and property damage during strike action.
"Unfortunately, the negotiation process between employer and employees in this country is often a slow, protracted and reactionary process," George said.
Trade unions should also ensure that their "noble struggle" was not tarnished by the unlawful actions of striking members, and that the rights of others were respected.
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal by Fedusa union against a Western Cape High Court ruling which found it liable for damages caused during a planned march.
"This ruling has highlighted what we are already doing in terms of taking reasonable steps, under the circumstances, to prevent foreseeable damage or injury," George said.
Fedusa members would continue to exercise their constitutional right to strike, but would do so "in line with legislation and protected strike action protocol".
