Tag: Werksmans Attorneys

The rapid integration and adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various industries and sectors is transforming the way businesses operate. It is driving efficiency, innovation and cost savings with its prolific progress. AI is reshaping the workplace at an unprecedented pace. It is streamlining administrative tasks and optimising complex processes.

Late last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Taxation Laws Amendment Act No. 42 of 2024. This Act introduced a significant tax incentive. The government aims to promote battery electric and hydrogen-powered vehicle production through this initiative.

Wanatu's language policy requirement for proficiency in the Afrikaans language is central to their business model, and has sparked significant debate. Wanatu operates in Centurion and Pretoria. One of Wanatu’s key value propositions, as stated on its website, is “Restoring dignity in our communities' jobs in Afrikaans” (direct translation from the website).

In National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa obo Nyawuza / PFG Building Glass [2024] 6 BALR 595 (NBCCI), the National Bargaining Council for the Chemical Industry (NBCCI) considered an unfair dismissal dispute. The dispute concerned an employee who was dismissed for misconduct after testing positive for cannabis in his system.

In recent months, SABS has faced growing scrutiny. Allegations of maladministration and mismanagement have led to a comprehensive investigation by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC).

Communal property associations reform aims to address longstanding governance challenges and enhance the effective management of community-owned land. The Restitution of Land Rights Act 22 of 1994 allowed individuals and communities to claim rights to dispossessed land. This dispossession occurred due to past racially discriminatory laws or practices.

Frequent and intense weather events and devastating effects of climate change are being experienced all over the world. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), over the past 50 years, extreme weather events have caused two million deaths and cost USD4 trillion in economic losses.

Revenge porn and legislation have become critical issues, as victims face complex legal challenges in seeking justice and protection. The internet and digital platforms have significantly impacted privacy rights and the legal landscape. Social media, blogs, and other online forums have created a complex cyber landscape.

There is a complex relationship between privacy and freedom of expression. Both rights are enshrined in the South African Constitution and are essential to a democratic society. The right to privacy safeguards personal autonomy by protecting individuals from undue intrusions into their private lives. Freedom of expression, on the other hand, promotes open debate and the sharing of information, which are vital for democracy.

A registered trademark is vulnerable to revocation or cancellation for non-use if it has not been used for the goods and/or services for which it is registered for a certain amount of time. In most instances this time period is five years and is calculated from the date of registration, as in South Africa and the European Union.