Abstract
M.Comm.
The purpose of this paper is to describe poverty reduction, the essentiality of labour, and entrepreneurship as a way of creating opportunities, the need for labour law in the workplace, while referring to some of the constraints it may place on employers, labour practices and finding a win-win solution for all three players within the labour relationship to the benefit of the greater economy as a whole.
Tackling unemployment is arguably South Africa's most important priority, while realising that the country will only attract investment in labour-absorptive sectors if it is competitive in terms of labour unit costs. Government has committed it to an employment strategy framework, while at the same time challenging business and labour to participate. There is a need for capable individuals who are prepared to accept the brunt of risk, to assist in job creation and assist in positive growth in the economy.
We are part of a capitalistic SOCiety. Entrepreneurship offers the total solution. It places no risk on government or the employee, while having the ability to assist in the creation of jobs and with the alleviation of poverty. Entrepreneurship needs to be positively influenced and encouraged so as to fill the void emanating from high unemployment, and help the economy further.
Potential entrepreneurs find themselves lost in a maze of legalities and tax laws, coupled with the unavailability of capital and heavy taxes on any positive returns, creating a barrier to entry for entrepreneurs. Labour is a very real necessity in the need for progress and actual implementation of opportunities. The essence of labour laws is to ensure no exploitation of workers, create fair working conditions and reward for the worker.
South Africa has a very turbulent labour history. The characteristics of the labour market are commitment to the social contract; removal of obstacles in the way of international trade and production; reduction in unemployment. There are three players in the labour market, being employers, employees and government, who all have to contribute their shares before successful production can take place.