Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Roy Jankielsohn MPL with images here, here, here, here and here.
The DA in the Free State Legislature has written to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Rural Economic Development, Small Business, Sport Arts and Culture, Mr Jabulani Radebe, requesting an urgent meeting to obtain briefings from various stakeholders involved with the Jagersfontein disaster.
The disaster at the Jagersfontein mine is one of the most devastating yet in the Free State province. It has severely affected this community, damaged property and livelihoods. At this stage we are aware of at least 82 people who were hospitalised and one fatality due to this incident, although it is in all probability impossible to ascertain if other people lie under the sludge.
The disaster has caused massive environmental damage, the impact of which on farmland, urban areas and water resources will take many years to ascertain. The areas around Jagersfontein are important irrigation hubs that are crucial for the provincial agricultural economy. The already impoverished community are currently without fresh water, electricity and other services.
In view of the above, and the responsibility of the Portfolio Committee to ensure oversight and accountability over the many stakeholders involved, the DA has requested that the Portfolio Committee receives a briefing from the stakeholders such as the company and relevant provincial and national government departments in order to establish the following:
- Which of the current and previous owners of the mine can be held accountable for the disaster?
- In view of reports that dam showed signs of bursting early in the morning that would have given authorities time to evacuate residents, why this was not done?
- How did the various local, provincial and national government authorities react to this disaster?
- What are the possible short-term and long-term economic and environmental impacts of this disaster?
- Whether relevant legislation relating to this activity and directives by national departments, such as the Department of Water and Sanitation and Labour were adhered to by the owners and why no action was taken against them?
- MEC Dukwana must explain his Zondo Commission testimony relating alleged corruption and Gulta links at the Jagesfontein mine.
DA Members of the Free State Legislature visited the area on Monday and DA councillor Estelle Noordman continues to assist affected residents and liaise with groups offering assistance to destitute families.
It is crucial that the community and people of the Free State are kept informed on this situation through their Legislature.