Msunduzi mayor admits firefighting shortage
Msunduzi Mayor Mzimkhulu Thebolla has acknowledged that firefighter shortages remain a problem, but insists the municipality is trying to fix it.
Emergency personnel are reportedly being pushed to their breaking point, with overstretched staff expected to work long hours at the city's four fire stations.
Fire engines and facilities need to be maintained or replaced.
Thebolla met with residents at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall on Saturday to discuss these challenges.
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He said that despite the difficulties the fire department is facing, providing fire services remains a top priority.
"We know that there have been many people who have retired from our firefighting team which then says there should be some vacant positions.
"As we are preparing for the budget, it then means we will be appointing new staff in those positions but the other issue which is beyond our control, Msunduzi is growing, so the demand for services always comes up."
