This follows his decision to extend the contracts for these participants until the end of March.

In August, Hlabisa announced that his department would end the participation of CWP workers aged 55 and older by the end of this month due to budget cuts. However, Hlabisa has now stated that his department, along with relevant stakeholders, will be exploring viable and sustainable solutions to assist these participants.

"This Friday, I'm meeting the Congress of SA Trade Unions and SA Municipal Workers Union so that in the next two months we can find an amicable solution. For instance, some participants are 60 and older and have already received the old age grant. We must consider - what if we relieve those people? They amount to 33 000 and ensure that those who have not yet received the grant, who are turning 60, we assist them quickly to register and qualify," Hlabisa said.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--