Pretoria - The violence and intimidation that has characterised the current public service strike is abnormal, unacceptable and deplorable, says Government spokesperson Themba Maseko.
Addressing the media at the Union Buildings on Monday, Maseko said although labour disputes were a normal part of any functioning democracy, government would not stand by while its citizens were subjected to violence, intimidation and abuse.
He added that the behaviour by certain striking public servants should be condemned by all South Africans.
"Strikers must know that the South African public will no longer be held ransom by anyone. Prevention of citizens from entering health and educational facilities, the assault of learners and other non-striking workers will not, under any circumstances by tolerated," he said.
The South African National Defence Force, in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, is ready to deal with any lawlessness in any part of the country, said Maseko, adding that all state institutions such as clinics and schools will be protected to ensure that they remain accessible to the public.
Maseko said that government wished to assure South Africans that the impasse would be resolved sooner rather than later.
