Dept spent R30 000 on shanty
THE NORTHERN Cape Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison spent R30 000 on the shanty that was handed to the Serai family as a temporary relief shelter in Nkandla settlement, Hartswater following the death of their nine-year-old son Refentse.
Refentse died after the school bus that he was travelling in collided with a truck near ER Mocwaledi Primary School in Pampierstad in February last year.
Last week’s ribbon cutting event to mark the handover of the shanty, which was officiated by the MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Lebogang Motlhaping, was slammed by members of the public, who believed that the pomp and ceremony involved in the handover of the shanty was an insult to the dignity of the family.
EFF provincial spokesperson Obakeng Lechuti pointed out that a low-cost brick house could have been constructed for the family, in less than 10 days, for less than R200 000.
The spokesperson for the provincial Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Keitumetse Moticoe, indicated yesterday that the department spent R30 000 on the temporary structure, which included the cost of materials and labour.
“Discussions are still unfolding with stakeholders for a permanent solution for the eight family members who were previously sharing a one-room structure,” said Moticoe.
“The department, in partnership with various stakeholders, looked at the best possible way to decisively intervene and provide a permanent structure for the family. Unfortunately, we were unable to meet the set deadline. Through discussions with the family and all concerned, it was agreed to build a temporary and decent structure to temporarily house the family, while engaging other stakeholders.
“The final details of the permanent structure are being finalised with the intervention of other stakeholders.”
Moticoe added that the municipality was responsible for installing basic services in the area.
“The area must have water, sanitation and electricity, which are basic services. In terms of the national housing code, the area must be serviced before permanent housing structures are built.”
Moticoe stated that the family qualified for a full government housing subsidy from Human Settlements, as they were classified as indigents.
“This process will take some time to be done by the municipality because those basic services must first be installed. That is why the relief of a temporary structure was deemed to be important.”
De Beers Group corporate affairs manager Abel Madonsela stated that they were not in any way involved in the construction of the shanty.
“The company was only involved with a donation for the recreational facilities at Eric Mocwaledi School, in memory of Refentse Darrin Serai. This contribution was made following engagements between De Beers Group and the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison.
“De Beers Group refutes claims of any other donations made in this matter.”