8 February 2006
Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore this morning visited the school
and the families affected by the bus accident yesterday near Malmesbury, where
two learners from the Anne Pienaar Memorial Primary School died when a bus
overturned.
They were on their way home after school, travelling on a gravel road when
the brakes apparently failed, just about 12km from the school. Grade two
learner Michaela van Rooyen (seven) and grade five learner Heather van Wyk (13)
died on the scene. Fifteen others were treated for minor injuries in hospital,
of which 12 have since been dismissed.
However, grade three learner Abigail Hendricks (eight) sustained serious
injuries to her leg and is still in the Paarl Hospital. Klara Wessels (seven)
and Sandy Willemse (12) are also still recovering in the Swartland
Hospital.
MEC Dugmore has requested the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) to
investigate and report to him by next week, whether the service provider
complied with all aspects of its contractual obligations.
Upon a visit to the accident scene, MEC Dugmore has also asked WCED
officials to investigate the possibility of alternative safer routes. However,
he said the main aim for now was to provide all the necessary support to the
learners and their families, including counselling and emotional support.
MEC Dugmore visited some of the families affected and offered his
condolences and support. He expressed his appreciation to the many calls of
support and for the efforts of WCED officials, the teachers, parents and
medical staff who have all been supporting the children.
WCED officials will continue to offer counselling and emotional support to
the learners, teachers and parents. MEC Dugmore has appealed to anyone who
wishes to make a financial contribution, to deposit money directly into the
bank account of the school.
Details are as follows: Anne Pienaar Gedenk (VGK) Primêre Skool, Standard
Bank, Branch nr 050507, Cheque Account Nr 082395446, or contact the school
principal Mr Jan Sass 022-482-2051, or cell 084-251-4138.
Enquiries:
Gert Witbooi
Media Liaison Officer
Office of the MEC for Education
Western Cape
Tel: (021) 467 2523
E-mail: gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Education, Western Cape Provincial Government
8 February 2006
