5 January 2004 Press Release City reach agreement with police union About 249 applicants joining the Johannesburg Metropolice Department (JMPD) training academy this year are to be reinterviewed after an amicable agreement between the JMPD and the labour union. City Manager Pascal Moloi, who mediated during the talks, said the decision was a responsible step to follow: "That demonstrates maturity of Chris Nqcobo the Chief of Police, as well as the union leadership." The dispute was triggered by an apparent procedural matters which the union said were overlooked by the employer during the recruitment process. To remedy the situation, a representative five-member panel was established to oversee the recruitment process. "Because both the JMPD management and union leaders understand their roles and responsibilities, a solution was found swiftly," said Moloi. He further pointed out that the process would not hamper plans to have the trainees commencing with classes on Monday January 12. Moloi said the interviewing and selection process will commence on Wednesday January 6 and be completed by Sunday. "We all agreed that service delivery and safety of Johannesburg residents were a priority. It was in that spirit all parties ensured that this priority is not compromises," he said. ENDS. Mbangwa Xaba Media Liaison Officer Communication Telephone: 011 407 7226 Facsimile: 011 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9230 Email: Mbangwax@joburg.org.za