'Spoornet is winning security battle'

Discussions continue over way forward for restructuring RECENTLY APPOINTED general manager restructuring and joint ventures Harry Mashele has taken a host of new responsibilities under his wing. Apart from the recent integration of Promat into the Spoornet division which he heads, inbound logistics also falls within his ambit, and this involves the integration of more than 300 warehouses. Asset protection, or in layman's terms security, is another part of his new portfolio, and here Mashele is confident that they're winning the battle. This relates to the security in transit of all Spoornet assets, fixed or movable, from copper wire theft to container pilferage." Several initiatives undertaken in conjunction with the SA Police Services and other agencies are showing positive results, he said. In terms of the restructuring programme announced by Spoornet in March this year, discussions are continuing with government through the Department of Public Enterprises and labour. "The idea is to find the best way forward to bring about efficiency and speedy turnaround for the sake of our economy." And Mashele believes there is appreciation of the complexity of the equation. "We have always been committed to mitigating job losses. "But at the same time we must allow ourselves the necessary profits to re-inject into sustaining and expanding our service. That's the fine balance that needs to be found."