Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Ms Buyelwa Sonjica, this morning visited the OR Tambo District to find out first hand the status with regards the deaths of eight people suspected to be from the effects of unhygienic water.
Minister Sonjica held a meeting with amongst others, MEC for Health Phumullo Masualle, the Executive Mayor of the OR Tambo District Municipality Zoleka Capa, councillors, officials from the Departments of Water and Health, as well as those from the district and local municipalities.
Though appreciating the reports received during the meeting, the political principals observed that there was no conclusive evidence so far putting a finger on one factor that could have caused the deaths. Considering that there was also a process in place to look at performing autopsies in order to enhance the findings and ensure that the correct information is disseminated in this regard, the political principals proposed one inclusive team that would collectively look at the matter and report back progressively beginning on Wednesday 10 June 2009.
The meeting also highlighted the challenges confronting the district municipality on issues of water delivery but also highlighted some of the current interventions in place as well as longer term plans that needed collective input and responsibility to ensure delivery of the basic services that would better the lives of people.
Enquiries:
Sputnik Ratau
Cell: 082 874 2942
E-mail: rataus@dwaf.gov.za or sputnikr@gmail.com
Issued by: Department of Water and Environmental Affairs
9 June 2009
