Public Works to step up fight against construction mafias
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson says issues such as theft and sabotage continue to endanger the success of construction projects.
Macpherson made the remarks during a meeting with all nine MECs of Public Works in Polokwane on Thursday.
He further condemned officials who enrich themselves with public funds instead of serving communities.
The meeting will reflect on the state of the country’s infrastructure and adopt plans to ensure construction projects are completed on time and within budget.
"I am confident that this forum and this group of executive hands, by working together, can face the challenges head-on and root out anyone or anything that stands in the way of our country's success,” Macpherson said.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba echoed the minister’s remarks, saying the behaviour of so-called construction mafias is beyond the pale.
She said no one has the right to halt a construction project by demanding a fee from contractors without doing any of the work.
"Mostly, it’s the son of the soil who says because I was born in this village before you start, I need 30% of the total you were given,” said Ramathuba.
"Where would the contractor get the money to buy the material when you want that 30%? You think it's an entitlement?"
Macpherson said the establishment of special units to combat corruption in the construction sector would be discussed at the meeting.
"We will also be looking at the development of a special unit, which we launched in our department, and how that could possibly replicated in provinces.
"We will also be looking at infrastructure plans presented by Infrastructure South Africa and how we can use that to get behind provinces, as well as talking about the progress on the project preparation window which we launched last year."
