Public Works comes under scrutiny at citizens’ convention in Uvongo
Among the issues raised were corruption and road infrastructure project delays.
In a bold move to deepen transparency and strengthen public trust, the MEC for the KZN Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer, officially launched the first annual citizens’ report convention on the South Coast recently.
At the Uvongo Town Hall, the MEC and his team, opened the department to public scrutiny on service delivery, fairness and accountability.
Meyer highlighted that the department was battling on numerous fronts before he took over. “Some of the headwinds faced include demoralised and unmotivated staff, to millions in unpaid service provider invoices, and construction mafia cartels demanding work and crippling infrastructure across the province.
The team got down to doing what is expected and we focused on transparency, honesty, engagement and partnerships, efficiency and accountability and with that foundation we rebuilt the department.”
He added that the area has potential for economic growth.
“The department is investing in several projects in Ray Nkonyeni Municipality. Work is under way to improve theatre services at Murchison Hospital and at Port Shepstone Regional Hospital, with improvements to the renal unit. One of the most significant projects is a psychiatric hospital for Port Shepstone which is in the tender phase. Several clinics are also going through maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.”
“These projects will improve facilities for doctors and nurses and infrastructure that supports the growing needs of this community. These project will create opportunities for local contractors and workers ensuring that infrastructure and development contributes directly to local economy and supports local job creation,” said Meyer.
Locals did not disappoint and came out in their numbers to raise various issues affecting the South Coast.
Port Shepstone resident Sivy Kalkapersad said it was encouraging, as a message of hope, empathy and compassion was delivered. However, he raised the issue of pit latrines at schools. Meyer indicated that a study was currently being undertaken by the government of India on rural facilities, without piped water or sewerage pipes. On completion of the study a blueprint will be provided to South Africa.
Other issues raised were corruption, continuous problems with road infrastructure, lease of properties, better work ethics from Expanded Public Works Progra
mme (EPWP) staff working on the roads, and corruption in the employment of EPWP staff.
Meyer said his department will act and play an active role on the concerns. A reporting line will be set up to report corruption which will be investigated.
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