Act 'to bring fairness'

JOB CREATION: AMENDMENTS EASE BURDEN ON SMALL EMPLOYERS

- Tshehla Cornelius Koteli

The Employment Equity (EE) Amendment Act is expected to come into effect next month and experts have labelled the sectoral targets as "the most controversial amendments".

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth made the announcement this month. Two changes were made to the Act, with one aimed at easing the burden on small employers to help them focus on job creation.

The initial implementation of the Act was in 1998. According to the department's website, the Act aims to promote fairness and equality in the workplace by eliminating unfair discrimination, promoting equal opportunities, and addressing historical imbalances.

It is the employers' responsibility to identify areas of unfair discrimination and inequality in their workplace. Through the Act, there could be a fair and inclusive workplace, increased diversity, and improved competitiveness.