Public Works vows to find answers for George collapse
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure says the Engineering Council of SA previously received two complaints against one of the contractors registered for the George building project.
Minister Sihle Zikalala says his department will ensure accountability for those responsible.
Thirty-two workers have been confirmed dead following the multi-storey building's collapse last Monday, while 20 are still unaccounted for.
Zikalala led a team comprising engineering and construction experts to the site of the disaster on Monday, as the Western Cape government announced the start of an independent investigation.
"One complaint was received in 2019, which was investigated and dismissed. A subsequent complaint was received in December 2023, and the investigation in that regard is still continuing,” Zikalala said.
The minister also addressed the families of the victims at a local community hall.
READ: George building collapse death toll climbs to 26
"We want to ensure a throughout investigation. Nothing should be left unattended, each and every report must be scrutinized. No one must be protected."
Rescuers have vowed to meticulously comb through every cavity.
Meanwhile? Cosatu has urged the government to move with speed to ensure justice for the victims, survivors and their families.
"We are deeply concerned by the points indicating the employer being involved in ignoring numerous labour laws. Including most likely, failing to register these workers for the UIF and compensation fund,” said the trade union federation’s Matthew Parks.
“If this is true the funds should compensate the affected workers and their families including the monies from the employer.”
