The Department acknowledges the serious concerns raised regarding the handling and disposal of job applications. The Department recognises the potential distress such matters may cause, particularly where personal information is involved, and assures the public that this issue is receiving its immediate and careful attention.

The Department remains firmly committed to the lawful, secure, and responsible management of personal information as a fundamental obligation.

An internal investigation into the matter is currently underway, and appropriate action will be taken based on its outcome. The individual implicated has been placed on precautionary suspension pending the conclusion of the investigation. In addition, an independent investigator has been appointed to ensure an objective and thorough review of the circumstances.

In response, the Acting Director-General, Ms Jacky Molisane, has instructed the Department's legal team to assess, in line with sections 19 and 22 of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), whether the incident meets the threshold for formal regulatory notification. The Department will act in full compliance with its obligations under POPIA, including determining whether reporting to the Information Regulator of South Africa is required and ensuring that any such notifications are made in a lawful, measured, and procedurally compliant manner.

The Department recognises the importance of maintaining public trust and will continue to communicate responsibly through official channels. Updates will be provided once the  process has progressed to a stage where accurate and verified information can be shared.

This matter is being addressed with the utmost seriousness, urgency, diligence, and care, in full alignment with the principles of POPIA and applicable governance standards.

The Department remains fully committed to safeguarding personal information, upholding robust governance practices, resolving this matter responsibly, and maintaining public confidence.

The Department sincerely regrets any distress this incident may have caused and reaffirms its commitment to the responsible and lawful management of all personal information entrusted to it.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Teboho Thejane

Departmental Spokesperson

082 697 0694/ teboho.thejane@labour.gov.za

-ENDS-

Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour​

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