Sir,

The Public Notice published on September 11 gives rise to the following questions:
* What were the criteria for deciding on beneficiaries for housing subsidies in 2008?
* Are the subsidies, totalling R2,747-million, payable by Endumeni ratepayers or by Umzinyathi or by the government?
* What are the implications of a ‘subsidy’ – does it go towards the cost of building a house or is it a cash payment to the beneficiary to be used for any purpose?
* Have the houses been built?
* I note that the eldest beneficiary is now 81 years old, and the youngest in 2008 was 21 years old, yet both are to receive the same financial subsidy if existence is verified.
One would think that older people, who have waited much longer, would get more than those in their twenties?
* Why had it taken five years to start verifying the existence of 100 people – what/who has caused the long delay?
Can one surmise that the looming 2014 election has expedited the process now?
* How will the beneficiaries be selected to make up the 100 number, as some listed in the Public Notice cannot be verified?
A response from the Municipality/Endumeni Council would be appreciated.

Reader,
Dundee