Skukuza - The workers' strike in the Kruger National Park on Friday did not affect the safety of tourists and animals, says park spokesman William Mabasa.
"Some rangers were at work while the tourism stuff did not join the strike. Initially, we were told that 248 rangers will join the protest, but only 204 protested," said Mabasa.
He said police and soldiers were in the park to protect the workers who did not join the strike.
"Soldiers and the police also assisted to make sure that all our tourists were safe. The protesters demonstrated peacefully and they did not destroy anything."
The spokesman said the protesters demonstrated at the Kruger, Phalaborwa and Punda Maria gates.
He said no one was intimidated during the strike.
"There were people who did not know that some of the employees were on strike. They did not even notice that there was something going on. The situation was normal, just like any other day."
The striking employees, including rangers, demanded equal payment.
Mabasa said the demands could not be met as salaries were based on the services provided by the different employees, their work experience as well as the agreement reached during job interviews.
"We will take action if the workers can come up with a resolvable demand. For now, there is nothing we can do to solve their problem."
Richard Ndlovu, who represents Kruger employees, was reluctant to comment on Friday.
"l cannot talk to you without the approval of the park," he said.
He previously told African Eye News Service that they had evidence to support their grievances.
"We have salary advices showing that employees, who have been working in the park since 1996, are earning less than those who joined the park later. There was a senior ranger who earns less than other rangers," said Ndlovu at the time, adding that the employees would only return to work after their grievances were resolved.
