Coltart questions why Zimsec has not paid employees

Education, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Senator David Coltart has ordered the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) board to submit a detailed report on its workers' earnings as part  of efforts towards resolving an impasse over allowances.

Senator Coltart last week told Zimsec to also explain why the workers have not been receiving allowances for the past 18 months.

Workers at the examination board recently approached the Labour Court seeking a 56 percent salary increment and an additional housing allowance of US$210.

Their employer had only offered a 10 percent adjustment. The two parties later agreed to use housing, personal and vehicle loans as well as encashment of leave days as remuneration.

However, a dispute arose after the workers accused management of dragging its feet.

They then complained to Senator Coltart through the National Education Union of Zimbabwe (NEUZ).

They accused the board of violating labour laws.

Sen Coltart last week said he tasked Zimsec to furnish him with a comprehensive report.

"I refer to your letter dated 3rd May 2012 and am disappointed to note that this matter has not been resolved.

"I have addressed this letter to the chairman of the Zimsec board and have asked for a report," reads part of the minister's response to the workers.

Sources at Zimsec said the workers' morale plummeted after members of senior management allegedly awarded themselves loans amounting to US$50 000.

NEUZ secretary-general Mr Headman Mangwadu described the impasse between Zimsec and its employees as "very worrying".

"We have met the minister and he has assured us that he will solve the matter. It, however, seems there are certain elements in the Zimsec board that are bent on making sure workers do not receive the outstanding allowances," he said.

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