J M Lourens
Persal 12327581
Department of Correctional Services
Goodwood
Western Cape

13 November 2019

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

EARLY RETIREMENT WITHOUT PENALISATION OF PENSION BENEFITS

1. I refer to the DPSA circular in above-mentioned regard, dated 25 February 2019, which details the guidelines and criteria for Early Retirement without Penalisation.

2. Par. 4 of the above-mentioned circular clearly stipulates the period for application. "applications open as of 1 April 2019 and close as at 30 September 2019" It is also stipulated as such on the application form itself.

3. This issue was also widely covered in the media who also indicated the application date as 1 April 2019 - 30 September 2019. The media also point out the process to have failed as only a small percentage of qualifying officials applied.

4. I applied for ER without penalisation from 31 March 2020 when I will be 55 years of age. I submitted my application on 4 September 2019. This was due to the fact that I was on extended leave/sick leave due to a serious operation from 25 April 2019 till 20 August 2019. My application was accepted by the HR and recommended by the Area Commissioner at Goodwood Management Area. The Regional Office Western Cape refused to accept my application with the indication that it was late. According to them the closing date was 30 June 2019.

5. I subsequently submitted an grievance in this regard but the DCS closed the grievance with the feedback that the due date was 30 June 2019. I asked for the communication that was distributed to members for the acknowledgement of this alleged due date but received no reply. The Area Commissioner also indicated on my grievance that would not have accepted and recommend my application if it was not in the allowed timeframe. I am truly frustrated as it seems that I am in front of a closed door. I really want to make use of this opportunity afforded to us to go on early retirement.

This opportunity was created on instruction of the President with the intention to cut the salary account of Government employees. Only a small percentage of qualifying officials applied. I applied within the said timeframe but Correctional Services "changed" the timeframe and refuse to handle my application. I assume the six months timeframe were given as this is not a decision to be taken lightly but Correctional Services halved this timeframe.

6. Can you please assist.

7. Thank you for your understanding.



JM LOURENS