Department of Employment and Labour explains network challenges it is facing

Banner of the National Department of Labour together with the South African flag

11 December 2019

The Department of Employment and Labour would like to inform all its clients of network challenges being experienced with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). The problem surfaced on 22nd November 2019 with the Department experiencing multiple network connectivity issues from the service provided by SITA. In a letter dated 6th December 2019 from SITA to their clients, it was noted that other government departments are also experiencing these problems. The impact to the Department of Employment and Labour is as follows:

• Very slow and unstable connectivity to the network service which is accessed by internal users and service providers

• Slow connectivity to web facing applications, which are accessed by internal users, business partners and citizens including those accessing Compensation Fund and Unemployment Insurance Fund systems

• Slow Internet access for internal users

• Delay in external emails

Despite various engagements with SITA to have the issue resolved, it has become evident that the challenges persist and a solution is not imminent. SITA has indicated that they have brought in external expertise to assist with troubleshooting.

The Department of Employment and Labour would like to extend its apologies to all staff, citizens and service providers who have been affected by the SITA network challenges. The Department has made a commitment to continue to exert pressure on SITA to expedite a resolution. In the meantime, the Department will continue to use SITA due to a legislative mandate, but the Department is currently looking at other options due to the challenges experienced and to ensure a better service to clients.

Issued by ICT : Department of Employment and Labour