The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to any misconduct that would ‘affect the working and relationship conditions’ at South Africa’s research base in Antarctica, SANAE IV.

This follows media reports over the weekend alleging assault and threats at the base.

The reports claimed that one of the nine team members assaulted another and threatened to kill them.

In a statement yesterday, the department said there were no incidents requiring the team’s return from the base.

“The department confirms that there were no incidents that required any of the nine overwintering team members to be brought back to Cape Town.

“If such incidents occurred, the management team of the department would have replaced such an overwintering team member with immediate effect, as the DFFE’s position on the matter is clear: Zero tolerance for any misconduct that would affect the working and relationship conditions at the SANAE IV. At the time the vessel departed for Antarctica on February 1, all was in order,” the DFFE said.

The alleged assault was reported to the department last month, and a response plan was activated to ‘engage the individuals involved through trained professionals in order to mediate and restore relationships at the base’.

“This process has been ongoing on an almost daily basis to ensure that those on the base know the department is supportive and willing to do whatever is needed to restore interpersonal relationships, but also firm in dealing with issues of discipline.

“The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, together with director-general Nomfundo Tshabalala, have personally taken charge of the management processes.

“This is particularly important given that most usual operations at other scientific bases in Antarctica have stopped due to the onset of winter and unpredictable weather conditions,” the statement read.

The alleged perpetrator has ‘willingly participated in further psychological evaluation’.

“[He] has shown remorse and is willingly co-operative to follow any interventions that are recommended. He has written a formal apology to the victim and is willing to verbally apologise to all members at the base.

“The department has also implemented a long-term sustained intervention process through trained professional counselling services to restore relationships and build a healthy working environment.

“The DFFE has also, in parallel, activated a labour relations process to deal with the matter as it relates to the alleged physical assault. An alleged sexual harassment is also being investigated. Reports of sexual assault are not correct,” the statement said.

Furthermore, George will be ‘engaging the team to reassure them of his support and commitment to their well-being’.

“He emphasises that careful management is required to give comfort to those at the base and their families. The willingness of the team to engage in Wellness Programme interventions, as well as professional and independent counselling, will assist in crafting a solution.

“The ultimate goal is for all at SANAE IV to be safe and healthy, working together as a team to advance the very important work they are performing in Antarctica,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

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