Closure of ‘unsafe’ Mpumalanga High Court evaded

Ceilings collapsing, shoddy plumbing work, leaking pipes

The closure of the Mpumalanga High Court due to structural defects has been evaded after an emergency meeting on Saturday to determine the course of action to take after the department of employment and labour order that it be shut down.

The department deemed the court in Mbombela unsafe after inspectors found ceilings collapsing and shoddy plumbing work, which has resulted in leaking pipes.

The department of justice confirmed it received a prohibition notice from labour citing safety concerns about the structure relating to roof leaks and ventilation.

Spokesperson Kgalalelo Masibi said the department met with departments of labour, public works and the Office of the Chief Justice on Saturday to determine a course of action in response to issues that were identified during the inspection and prohibition notice issued on 30 October 30.

“After representation made by the departments about the areas identified to be addressed, it was resolved that the prohibition notice shall be suspended for seven working days commencing on Monday, November 4.

The department remains committed to resolving the issues raised by DEL including ensuring the safety of staff, judiciary and members of the public.Spokesperson Kgalalelo Masibi

She said the suspension of the implementation of the prohibition notice will provide an opportunity for the department to address the issues raised in the prohibition notice, which include ensuring proper ventilation, provision of a report confirming the integrity of the structure and provision of the occupancy certificate.

“The departments provided extensive feedback to DEL (department of employment and labour) on matters relating to the prohibition notice and progress thereof. It is based on the above that the extension was granted. The department remains committed to resolving the issues raised by DEL including ensuring the safety of staff, judiciary and members of the public.

“The discussions are still ongoing between the parties including the exchange of expert and technical reports to find a long-term solution to matters that were raised.”

Masibi said the court will remain open on Monday.

The department of labour’s deputy director-general Aggy Moiloa said the inspection was conducted after they received several complaints about the condition of the court.

“The reason we ended up prohibiting the building is because the ceiling is collapsing and this causes immediate danger to anyone who is in and around that area,” she said in an interview with the SABC.

“We also found that there is poor plumbing work done. The pipes were leaking... and because of that, it is damaging the structure of the building.”

Masibi said the matter was being attended to by the department with the urgency it deserves.

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