Sick Former Miners Are Owed Money – But Getting Paid Is Hard
News Summary
Many former mineworkers in South Africa are still waiting for money they deserve because of lung diseases. The process is slow and complicated, and thousands are missing out.
Originally reported by Daily Maverick.
Why It Matters
This news matters for anyone who works or has worked in a mine. It explains that many workers who got sick from mining are still not paid the money they deserve. The money is for lung diseases like silicosis and TB, which many miners get from breathing in dust underground.
In 2019, a big court case led to the creation of the Tshiamiso Trust. It has about R5-billion to pay sick miners or their families. But so far, only about 23,000 people have been paid out of nearly 500,000 who might qualify. Many claims are rejected because workers cannot prove they worked in the mines. Their records were lost or never kept. This is unfair, and time is running out before the trust closes.
For a job seeker, this shows why you must know your rights as a worker. If you work in a mine, keep all records safe, like contracts, pay slips, and medical reports. If you ever need to claim, you must have proof. Also, understand the risks of your job and speak up about unsafe conditions.
Skills In Demand
From Live Job DatabaseCareer Tip
"If you are a mineworker or former mineworker, get advice from the Tshiamiso Trust or a worker rights organisation. Also, make copies of all your work documents and health records and store them somewhere safe. This could help you get money you are owed if you become sick."
