The Western Cape provincial government (WCG) said this week that it would write to various departments and organisations and request the status of their investigations into the collapse of the George Building.
The building collapse claimed 34 lives on May 6, although a number of people are still missing to this day.
Government departments and other organisations were appointed to investigate this tragic incident but there is still no update.
The province initiated the investigation a few days after the incident in early May.
Premier Alan Winde and MEC for Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers said the provincial government would write to the SAPS, the Department of Employment and Labour, the National Department of Human Settlements, and the National Home Builders Registration Council requesting the status of their investigations.
The province also appointed an independent structural engineering firm to conduct the probe. This was in addition to multiple other investigations, including one by SAPS, which may result in criminal proceedings. This would, however, depend on the evidence.
The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure is monitoring the process closely to ensure that all investigations are thorough and conclusive. The WCG has been clear with various investigating agencies that we will offer any assistance they may require to ensure that their investigations are as comprehensive and conclusive as possible.
“In this regard, we have also asked for updates on these various investigative processes so that a holistic conclusion to this tragedy may be reached and those affected can get the closure they deserve,” Simmers said.
Winde said the province also understood that the families of the victims were desperate for answers. He said the progress of the investigations was encouraging, especially considering the complexities associated with such incidents.
“We will continue to closely monitor our probe, as well as the others. It is vital that we get to the bottom of what caused this unthinkable tragedy so that those responsible – whoever they may be – are held to account and face the consequences of their actions, and that those affected by this disaster can find closure,” Winde said.
He further said: “I am satisfied that the gravity of this incident is fully appreciated by all role players who share the sentiment that we must collaborate closely. The WCG has an important oversight role and is committed to seeing this process to its conclusion.
“We will relentlessly follow-up with the relevant agencies to ensure that they fulfil their respective roles and responsibilities in enforcing their mandates and to ensure that we avoid further tragedies like this happening again.”
The premier emphasised that the findings flowing from the various agencies’ investigations must be consolidated so that “we” get an overall understanding of what transpired. He has urged all stakeholders to cooperate closely.
He said the WCG was writing to the SAPS, the Department of Employment and Labour, the National Department of Human Settlements, and the National Home Builders Registration Council requesting the status of their investigations.
“The WCG has a clear timeline in which it wants its processes to be concluded so that concrete and decisive action can be taken. While we know that many people want answers, we must ensure that all the correct processes are followed and we will keep the public updated,” Winde said.
Asked how far the investigations were, the departments of Employment and Labour were still investigating the incident and the matter had not been concluded yet.
Western Cape police commander Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie said the inquest docket’s investigation was ongoing. He said various statements had been obtained from potential witnesses as well as people of interest, in a process to unravel the circumstances leading to the collapse of the building.
“Upon finalising of the investigation, the docket will be submitted to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to determine the process further, whether anyone will be held accountable and/or be prosecuted,” Pojie said.
The National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) spokesperson Portia Sebulela said a preliminary report was submitted, but the final report with recommendations is due on September 27. She said the council would be having the engagement.
The Engineering Council of South Africa (Ecsa) recently placed an engineer linked to the collapse on precautionary suspension. The council said the decision was taken as preventative measure, to preclude any potential or actual harm to public health and safety as a result of engineering-related activities.