Trade union Solidarity is demanding details of Media24 executives’ and editors’ remuneration as the company considers restructuring parts of its editorial operations.
The proposed changes could affect up to 126 jobs across several well-known publications.
Solidarity said it would seek full disclosure of Media24’s strategic and financial planning to assess the business case behind the proposed retrenchments.
The union believes that senior management decisions, rather than those of ordinary employees, are responsible for the company’s operational challenges.
Major Media24 brands affected
The restructuring reportedly affects editorial teams at News24, Netwerk24, Huisgenoot, YOU, Sarie, and Weg!/GO!
Media24 announced the consultation process as it moves towards a smaller and more consolidated operating model.
The company said the changes were intended to streamline its editorial operations and improve the long-term sustainability of its media division.
However, it stressed that no final structure had been approved.
The proposals remain subject to consultations under Section 189A of the Labour Relations Act.
Solidarity questions repeated restructuring
Solidarity deputy general secretary Helgard Cronjé said the latest process was the fourth similar retrenchment exercise at Media24 in three years.
He argued that the repeated consultations showed that targets set during earlier restructuring processes had not been achieved.
Cronjé accused management of expecting journalists, photographers, layout artists and other workers to carry the cost of poor decisions.
Solidarity also wants to determine whether Media24 properly considered alternatives before proposing possible job cuts.
The union said senior remuneration was relevant when assessing the company’s cost structure and survival plans.
Alternatives to job cuts sought
Solidarity has begun consultations with Media24 and says it will examine the company’s financial justification and proposed operating structures.
Labour relations organiser Johan Roos said the possible loss of editorial expertise at established titles was deeply concerning.
He said the union would pursue reasonable alternatives aimed at preventing or limiting retrenchments.
Solidarity describes itself as Media24’s largest trade union.
Media24 maintains that the consultation process is intended to find a sustainable way forward amid continued pressure on the media industry.
The number of affected positions could still change as consultations continue.