Too many seawater extraction questions
ANOTHER letter to Sipho Tandani and the Ocean and Coast branch of the Eastern Cape department of environmental affairs about the seawater extraction notice.
Based on the scanty information supplied, certain points need to be clarified:
There is no explanation as to how far the 95m pipe will extend into the sea and how it will be taken beyond rocks and turbulence.
The description of the pipe is insufficient. There is no account of the mechanism by which you propose to ensure that ocean organisms are not sucked into the tanks; or injured. It will be detrimental to the area if dead organic matter litters the surrounds of your extraction site. Health and safety issues will arise.
There is no indication as to the number of rainwater tanks you intend to fill on one day or where the said rainwater tanks will be placed.Note that permission has not been granted for the presence of rainwater tanks for any length of time.
There is no explanation of the proposed transfer of tanks to bakkie.
The period for pumping of water is excessive if the rate of transfer is 25 litre per minute. Activities should be completed within a two-hour interval which could be then done between 12 noon-2pm on a daily basis, presuming only 1 000 litre is to be extracted as implied by your notice.
During this time interval, your unwanted activities will be least obtrusive for beach-goers (but not so for porch-lovers).
What is the allowed decibel level on your permit?
Although pumping activities extend from 8am-3.30pm, preparation for and removal of equipment will make this site inaccessible to residents, tourists and public for 10 hours, Monday to Friday.
What alternative arrangements are in place for the public to access this beach area without undue inconvenience? Has an alternative approach been demarcated?
These activities are in contravention to the definition of a residential zone. Question: Tell us about your job.
Answer: I have a very interesting and dynamic job as a communication officer in the SAPS.
My responsibilities vary from event management and protocol, internal and external communication which includes dealing with the media.
I also have other responsibilities as an officer.
We are also disciplinary officers; we investigate discipline cases and also act as employer representatives (prosecutors) at disciplinary hearings.
Being trained as a police officer, I am also operational, so I am also out working on the field!
Q: What made you get into that line of work?
A: I have a passion to serve the community.
Q: Describe the most memorable experience that you have had in your line of work.
A: Every day is a memorable experience
Q: What do you do to unwind when you are not working?
A: Oooh . . . lots. I have plenty of hobbies – I paint, knit, crochet, cook, go fishing, do beadwork and play golf.
Q: What is your motto in life?
A: The ABC of living . . . I believe life management is all about ABC. A: Attitude – Your attitude determines your altitude; B: Beliefs – believe in yourself and your potential. Whatever you believe in you can achieve; C: Choices – be wise with your choices ... and the power of association.
Q: What makes you happy?
A: To see others happy
Q: What makes you angry?
A: Disrespect. I get upset and disappointed at the blatant disregard for others.
Q: What do you think about the youth of South Africa? Do you have any advice for them?
A: They have so much potential to do a lot to build South Africa. Stay focused and be a person of integrity.
Q: What do you like most about Port Alfred? A: The sea. Q: If you could change one thing about Port Alfred . . . A: The water. Q: What is your favourite music of all time?
A: No favourites . . . I just love all kinds of music.
Q: Name three people you would like to invite for dinner (dead or alive)?
A: My parents and my brother – they’ve all passed away.
Q: Three wishes for South Africa?
A: More support to South African artists and products; a country free of crime; all products being environmentally friendly and recyclable.