The National Department of Public Works (DPW) would like to correct a wrong perception that the department is losing its ‘footing’ on leases involving the South African Police Service (SAPS). The truth of the matter is that the DPW constantly contacts client departments in 18 months, 12 months and 6 months intervals, before the lease expires.
On Monday (26 March 2012) National Department of Public Works Officials led by the Acting Deputy Director-General of Inner City Regeneration and Key Account Management, met with the SAPS delegation led by Lieutenant General, Dr Leah Mofomme to discuss the issue of 1 273 SAPS leases managed by the DPW.
Currently, of the 1 273 SAPS leases managed by the DPW, 396 have expired.
The two teams will meet again on Friday (30 March 2012) to discuss a plan of action to resolve problems that led to expired leases. DPW legal services is looking into the issue of landlords locking out clients, as this action is not procedural.
The SAPS has been reportedly locked out of or evicted from eight facilities. This figure includes office accommodation and high sites (for SAPS communication devices).
Of the 396 expired leases, 230 Procurement Instructions have been issued to regional offices for procurement of new leases on behalf of the SAPS.
A procurement Instruction is a document that confirms the availability of funds and a need for that lease to continue. For the outstanding 166 leases, processes to issue Procurement Instructions are on going.
The Minister has given his assurance to all staff-members during his engagements with the staff that the department is not imploding and that it will pull through this sticky situation. A turnaround strategy is already in effect and the department is on track to deliver proper services to national departments as per its constitutional mandate.
Contacts:
Thami Mchunu
Communications & Marketing
Cell: 079 519 6997
E-mail: thamsanqa.mchunu@dpw.gov.za
The National Department of Public Works outlines steps undertaken on South African Police Service lease deals
