by Jacques van Wyk, Director and Andre van Heerden, Senior Associate

On 18 February 2021 the Department of Employment and Labour issued a statement recording that progress is being made between the UIF and NEDLAC regarding the extension of the Covid-19 Temporary Employer / Employee Scheme (“TERS”).

The social partners at NEDLAC have endorsed proposals to extend TERS to sectors still affected by the lockdown regulations as well as employees with comorbidities and those over 60 who cannot be reasonably accommodated at work. NEDLAC has also welcomed proposals regarding the payment of income replacement benefits to employees who have to self-isolate or quarantine. Sectors covered range from tourism to hospitality as well as sectors involved in the manufacturing, sale, dispensing, distribution and transportation of liquor.

The social partners of NEDLAC have agreed to two payment periods: the first period being from 16 October 2020 until 31 December 2020 and the second period being from 1 January 2021 until 15 March 2021. It is anticipated that applications for the first period will commence in the first week of March 2021. The UIF will make an announcement once systems are open for applications.

 A full copy of the statement can be accessed at http://www.labour.gov.za/nedlac-partners-endorse-uif-proposal-for-covid-ters-extension .