The Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development has noted the reported challenges surrounding the payment of the contractor appointed to construct the Boipatong Memorial Centre.
The reports paint a picture of doom for the contractor involved and allege that the project is at the risk of collapsing. Whilst we acknowledge that there are delays around payment, we do not agree with the impression created about the fate of the project.
MEC for Infrastructure Development, Bheki Nkosi said: “We acknowledge that there has been payment delays to the contractor and consultants involved with the Boipatong project. However, it is not true that the matter has reached a crisis point. All the challenges around this particular payment have been communicated and addressed with the contractor. We have been assured that the project is not under threat”.
There is an outstanding amount of R2, 8 million from an invoice dated 11 May 2012. This payment is eight days overdue in terms of payment processes within the department. All payment processes have been concluded and the invoice has been forwarded for processing and may take another nine days before payment is reflected.
“We associate ourselves with the history, plight and developmental potential of the Boipatong community. As a department, we are making an undertaking to the people of Boipatong that despite the logistical hiccups that led to the slow and late start; the project will be completed by the end of this financial year (2012/13), and will be ready for unveiling during the 21st anniversary of the Boipatong Massacre in 2013,” said Nkosi.
The department is committed to delivering socio-economic infrastructure through the Expanded Public Works Programme and its Capital Expenditure projects around health and education. It is through these projects and programmes that the much needed on-the-job skills training and employment opportunities for our people will be accelerated.
For more information contact:
Philemon Motshwaedi
Tel: 011 355 5105
Cell: 083 648 6870
E-mail: Philemon.Motshwaedi@gauteng.gov.za
