The Department of Infrastructure Development notes the penalties amounting to R 1.46 billion imposed by the Competition Commission on 15 major players in the construction sector on Monday this week.
As the department responsible for the construction and maintenance of socio-economic infrastructure in the province, we are deeply disturbed by revelations of cartel behaviour within this sector, whose services we procure on an on-going basis.
Revelations of price collusion and bid rigging have serious implications for the work we do, which includes construction of schools, hospitals and community centres.
As MEC Qedani Mahlangu indicated during her budget vote at the end of May, we are working with other arms of government to consolidate our collective response.
We are also considering the option of seeking admission as an intervener in the upcoming Competition Tribunal process for the confirmation of the settlements entered into by the firms involved.
This process would allow government the opportunity to be heard as one of the affected parties, but also inform our comprehensive response going forward.
For further enquiries please contact:
Thulasizwe Simelane
MEC Qedani Mahlangu’s spokesperson
Cell: 081 031 3518
Tel: 011 355 5004
E-mail: Thulasizwe.Simelane@gauteng.gov.za
