IMPENDING INDUSTRIAL ACTION
1. As you may be aware, organised labour has given notice that they intend to embark on industrial action on 7 September 2009.
2. The SARS management recognises the seriousness of the proposed industrial action and has developed contingency measures in the event that the planned industrial action goes ahead. These measures are aimed at ensuring that core activities and services are undertaken with minimal disruption.
3. From a Customs and Border Management perspective these measures, amongst others, entail the following:
a) Traders and agents acting on their behalf are encouraged to undertake pre-clearance;
b) All queries should be directed to Branch Managers;
c) Where Branch Managers are unable to assist, queries should be escalated to the SARS Head Office: Customs and Border Management Division;
d) Two call lines have been created at Head Office to report any difficulties as a result of the industrial action, including difficulties in obtaining release of your goods. The telephone numbers are (012) 422 6617 and (012) 422 8603 and dedicated officers have been assigned to assist. These numbers will be operational for the duration of the industrial action between 07h00 and 18h00 daily;
e) The standard turnaround time for the processing of all manual / disc clearances cannot be guaranteed, apart from exceptional circumstances that will be at the discretion of Branch Management;
f) For electronic payments in case of deferment, clients are required to fax proof of payment to either (012) 422 6910 or (012) 422 6991 and include the following details:
Client code;
Statement no;
Settle date;
Contact details; and
Branch Office.
4. The SARS Customs and Border Management Division highly appreciates your cooperation and reconfirms its commitment to service.
With kind regards,
ERICH KIECK
GROUP EXECUTIVE: CUSTOMS STRATEGY AND POLICY