Government under the leadership of Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe met with religious leaders representing the South Africa Council of Churches and South African Catholic Bishop's Conference (SACBC) in Pretoria on Friday, 7th June 2013. The religious leaders were led by Bishop Abel Gabuza and Dr Andre Bartlett.
The meeting was requested by the Deputy President to provide an opportunity for the religious leaders to articulate and discuss their concerns in relation to the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP). This followed statements that were made by the SACBC in the media.
In their presentation, they said that while they understand the rationale behind the GFIP, they are concerned about public perceptions surrounding it and the impact of the toll roads on the poor. In response, government acknowledged the SACBC's concerns and reiterated that such concerns were adequately addressed following the consultation process involving a range of stakeholders.
Government had made a number of concessions, including the reduction of tariffs, exemption of public transport vehicles, capping the monthly rates and upgrades to alternative roads. Government stressed that the poor will not be affected by e-tolling because of the exemptions extended to public transport users.
Enquiries:
Thabo Masebe, Spokesperson to the Deputy President
Cell: 082 410 8087
